A Moment to Brag....

on my beautiful girl, and stellar trumpet player. Maddie's Terra Nova tests come in from last year. 91st and 97th percentiles! Who says you can't get a good education at a public school? It's like my dad always said-- you get out of an education what you put into it. It's true. I push my daughter (academically speaking). And I'm not going to stop. You shouldn't force your children to participate in crap they don't want to do, but you make them finish what they start, try new things, and poor grades for smart kids are simply not an option.

I was laying in bed with Jackson the other day, watching him sleep. It dawned on me, that I have three smart, happy kids? What makes a child "good" and "happpy"? I wondered to myself. I think I have part of the answer. My children get a lot of unconditional love. A lot. Back tickles, snuggles, hugs, kisses, just physical attention. Then they get individual love, and attention on their individual accomplishments and interests. Strong, but loving, discipline and communication. Lots of stimulation to new experiences, activities, and variety. Commitment as a family. We usually have dinner together, around the table, no tv, and talk a bit. I am amazed at how few families do these things! Teaching them self-confidence, self-reliane, and age-appropriate responsibilty. I am not a perfect parent, and I am not telling anyone what they should do....I am just saying that I feel like I am finally doing something truly right. Watch-- now all three will end up in jail together! hahahaha