Since I've been pregnant, I have found myself watching kids misbehave and asking myself "What did I get myself into?"
Looking around, I see kids who push their parents around to try to get their way, and their parents believe that their children will be happiest if they get everything they want. Kids want their own laptop when they are 5, a cell phone when they are 8, designer clothes when they are 10 and to go out on dates when they are 12. These parents find it easier to tell their children yes... but I'm going to be the NO parent. The mean parent.
I've already started preparing myself for my son's declarations that I am the meanest mom in the whole world. I don't know that I ever told my parents that, but I do remember thinking it. Now that I look back though, I'm sure glad they were "mean".
So son, get ready...
Mommy will say no.... a lot.
Mommy will not make excuses for your behavior.... and there will be consequences.
Mommy is not going to get you everything you want, but will give you all the love and grace you need.
Mommy will make you do chores and get a job when you are old enough so that you can earn the things you want.
Mommy will expect more from you than the world expects. She'll expect you to take responsibility, to be a leader and not a follower, to be a man of God.
Mommy is ready to be the meanest mom you'll ever have. But she loves you dearly :)
You did indeed tell me I was the meanest mom on earth a few times and I've definitely heard it a few more from your brother and sister! I am proud to be a "mean mom" who didn't spoil my kids with material things and let them date before at age 12 or 13 and who made them do chores and be held accountable for their actions! More parents need to be "mean" and be the parent instead of trying to be their child's friend! Kids have enough friends! What they need is good parents! I know you and Russ will be great parents and remember, when your son is grown and tells you thank you for the times you said "no" it will all be worthwhile! I have always said my kids dont always have to agree with me or like me but they will always know i loved them enough to discipline them and set boundaries! And when all else fails remember mom's favorite response..."because I'm the MOM, that's why!!!"
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