Raising A Competent and Capable Son

Hey Lovelies!

I love my Aiden to pieces. Being his mother has been such an amazing and delicious experience. And I want nothing but the best for him in life.

But recently, I've gotten so caught up in the everyday stresses and strains of single motherhood -- make up our beds in the morning, make breakfast, pack lunch, get to preschool on time, cook dinner.. this list is endless. Focusing on the nitty gritty of things can take up a lot of my energy... if I let it.

But I'm not going to let it. And here's why...

I am going to take the time to figure out what kind of person I want to raise. Yes, of course I want Aiden to be happy and healthy and have all the opportunities afforded to him as possible, but when all is said and done, when he graduates from high school, moves on to college, and becomes an adult, what kind of person will he be?

When he goes on his first date, finds someone he loves and gets married, what will his partner whisper in my ear? It better be something good!

I want my son to be active and happy. And yes, swimming and gymboree and apple picking and all types of activities around NYC will take care of that.

I want him to be bright. And daycare and preschool and reading a ton of books and completing jigsaw puzzles will take care of that. At least that's what they tell me.

But what about the other things that I want to instill in him? I want him to be cooperative, loving, caring, compassionate, moral, honest, optimistic, a problem solver, resilient.

And I have been given the opportunity to demonstrate these exact behaviors to him as a single mom... each. and. every. day.

And for that I'm grateful.

So the next time I'm feeling overwhelmed or too caught up in our everyday grind, I'll remember this post and choose my actions wisely.

And the next time his behavior is umm, less than appropriate, I'll remember this post and respond accordingly.

After all, If I can make the tough decision to choose safety and sanity to leave a bad relationship, I can raise a competent and capable son as well.

Smooches,