For My Daughters

January 17, 2018

By Bridget Grella

I have been blessed with two beautiful daughters…they are both gracing me with their teenage spirit daily. This spirit can be a  challenge at times.  Like the fact that they have NOT embraced my New Year’s resolution to only purchase the necessities. I seem to hear the phrase:  “Mumma I need…” over and over and over during the last two weeks.

Now some of the needs are legitimate. My youngest has blossomed so that many of her dance clothes etc. simply do not fit and of course we have the shoe battle to contend with and my eldest has a semi-formal.  But how do I put things in perspective when battling The Have vs. The Have not?

I want my girls to have it all…But my idea of ALL and their idea is very different. I want my girls to be grateful for what they currently have but at the same want more out of life. Take risks and try new things. I wonder if that is too much to ask at this tender age. When they break my Momma bear spirit and I become frustrated with their less than stellar personas (albeit limited) I wonder if they understand why I am frustrated.

As a mother I don’t say NO because it is easy… that is the furthest thing from the truth. I say NO because I believe it is best for you to not have everything with ease. I say NO because you may be growing up too fast. I may say NO because the money tree in the back yard hasn’t bloomed this season. Lastly, I may say NO because I simply mean NO.

I guess in my frustration I forget to tell my daughters that it is out of love that I worry and say NO more than yes…I also need for Quinn & Roo to always remember this:

1. I love you and I always will
2. Love with all of your heart and show kindness everyday
3. You did not choose your family, God did, so keep it together
4. Work hard and sleep well
5. You should never be without a dream or a reason to smile
6. Remember the hard days create the beautiful ones so be thankful for both.
7. Please choose your friends and boyfriends with care.  You become who you spend time with
8. Be selective who you give your heart to…you are very special and the person should always cherish that
9. Keep making yourself uncomfortable…stretch you limits…you will see what you are truly made of
10. When you feel as though you have been buried, you have not.  You have been planted and from there you will grow into a better person or bring yourself into a better situation.
11. There is no outfit or shoe or pocketbook or manicure that will make your life better…EVER!  That is all on YOU!

Xoxo Momma Bear