My deal: I resort to empty threats and raise my voice too often...worry I've got a bit of an authoritarian parent streak, but I'm good at stocking the house with art supplies and amazing books, snuggling, wrestling, Superwoman flights, and other physical feats of mothering, and modeling generosity for my kids. Thanks for this. So nice to just reflect on some of the positive shit for once.
Sarah, if you’re a “spazz” then we need more parents just like you. Because you and Courtney Martin have given us such inspiring and experienced wisdom about the vital task of parenting. As a grandfather I’m thrilled that I continue to gain valuable insights from you both. This commentary complements perfectly Courtney’s recent book on parenting.
I loved this post, Sarah, thank you! I finally had to stop reading parenting books because they just made me feel guilty and like I was doing it wrong. I have been far less than perfect -- although some of the thing I used to struggle with, like losing my temper, have actually gotten better as my kids have gotten older. Now I struggle with figuring out what questions to ask to get them to open up and how to help them understand and wrestle with their privilege while sympathizing and equipping them to navigate their challenges. But I also regularly make their favorite foods, let them introduce me to music and shows they love (they have surprisingly good taste for teenagers!), and still read out loud regularly to my 10 year-old. There are so many ways to be a good parent -- thanks for the reminder.
A word to the 1000th subscriber: You do not think she is going to send the bacon, but I can assure you that she WILL send the bacon.
My deal: I resort to empty threats and raise my voice too often...worry I've got a bit of an authoritarian parent streak, but I'm good at stocking the house with art supplies and amazing books, snuggling, wrestling, Superwoman flights, and other physical feats of mothering, and modeling generosity for my kids. Thanks for this. So nice to just reflect on some of the positive shit for once.
Sarah, if you’re a “spazz” then we need more parents just like you. Because you and Courtney Martin have given us such inspiring and experienced wisdom about the vital task of parenting. As a grandfather I’m thrilled that I continue to gain valuable insights from you both. This commentary complements perfectly Courtney’s recent book on parenting.
Peace, Dennis Dalton (DD)
Nothing but love for this and you. Also, I really hope I get the bacon.
I loved this post, Sarah, thank you! I finally had to stop reading parenting books because they just made me feel guilty and like I was doing it wrong. I have been far less than perfect -- although some of the thing I used to struggle with, like losing my temper, have actually gotten better as my kids have gotten older. Now I struggle with figuring out what questions to ask to get them to open up and how to help them understand and wrestle with their privilege while sympathizing and equipping them to navigate their challenges. But I also regularly make their favorite foods, let them introduce me to music and shows they love (they have surprisingly good taste for teenagers!), and still read out loud regularly to my 10 year-old. There are so many ways to be a good parent -- thanks for the reminder.