and with all that she managed to call home almost once a week. (Read more here)
Family communication. When children are little they are always looking to parents listen and it is a fortunate parent who has grown children who still "call home." Maybe it's all the years of responding to "mommy, mommy" or maybe it's just part of who I am that makes my favorite highlights of the day the phone calls from children and grandchildren. And to hear their voice on answering machines...well...come on and confess. Don't we save them to hear all over again :) Even when we looe our parents or family members a cherished gift is to replay their messages and hear their voice.
Kids going to college: Make plans for communication.
Discuss with your child ways to communicate with you while she's at college. Many parents enjoy receiving e-mails from their college-aged children, and students often prefer this method of communication because it allows them to reach out to you on their timetable. If you'd like a weekly phone call, make that clear to your child. Once she's at college, ask her when it would be easiest to get her on the phone. Also, expect the frequency of communication to vary. Some kids get swept away by the activities of college life and neglect communication with their family. Others may call every day until they feel more at ease in their new life. It depends on the personality and college experiences of your child.
So take a moment in your busy day. Phone home. Complete the circle of love and say hello today.
Building a family is hard work. In case no one told you that I thought I'd just make sure you knew that right up front. Especially if this is the beginning of your journey. So I scribble little notes when I run across affirmations that'll help me on the waves of life. Because no one tells you this at the beginning of your journey and you expect so much. Then when the waves come crashing down and you're tossing in the undertow you think it's over. Building a family is like riding the ups and downs of the waves in the ocean. When the wind blows, or the current shifts, or you get unstable and fall off the board....you just have to swim after your board and get back on. Building a family may mean different things to different people Whether we are building a family of friends or a family with children the principles are the same. If the waves are strong but the surf is worth the ride then climb back on the board and paddle for the next wave. Know you're are going to have calms seas and stormy days ahead. That's life.
When faces with obstacles here's a little thought.
Tomorrow is
an empty treasure chest full of potential
waiting to be
filled with memories.
