Parenthood

Recently my husband and I were invited to join other parents on a panel  to answer some questions about parenthood. In the audience were about 20 + teenagers from about 14-17 years old.... two of which were our 15 year old twins.... 

1) What is the most enjoyable thing about being a parent?

My response: To hear the words "mum" and "mother".... I couldn't think of anything more enjoyable than that - except for when the word 'Mum' is followed in quick sucession with, "can I? ....can I?... can I?.... will you?.... awwww but mum". Maurice and I value being parents because we were told it was unlikely ever going to  a mum and a dad due to ongoing girly problems.... so hearing the word 'Mum' is pretty special ;-) What is yours?

2) What is the biggest challenge you face as a parent?

My response: As a mother of sons, my biggest challenge was being able to communicate with my babies... because my sons just stopped talking once they hit 13/14 years of age.... and I remember clearly when one of them was littler - and he used to yack and yack and yack until I had to ask him to be quiet so his brother could get a word in..... and now - SILENCE. What is yours?

3) How would you judge if your child was successful?

My response: I would  judge my children's success by them going on their missions, marrying in the temple (to someone who would let me have the grandchildren), going to university, getting a good job (and well off enough to keep me in my old age) . Obvsiously aimed to lift the mood of the room of teenagers - these fell flat on the floor and I didn't even get a smile from either of my two babeis... What I should have said and I wish I said so that my son's could hear - was I would judge my child's success when they are happy in what they do, where and how they do it, and is an outstanding father and loving husband.... it's all about how the game of life is played - not really anything to do with what you get at the end... How will you judge your child's success?

What is some advice you would give your children on how to be a good parent?

Well, by now my son's would have wished a big great gaping hole would have swallowed them alive... because when it came around to my turn -  I said something like don't try and find someone to marry now - you are young - be young, and enjoy - then I said something about the young women about letting the boys do their thing and don't interfere... I know I said that to the girls in the class - practically putting a great big warning out there ;-) I think that my son's believe that I totally destroyed any chance of them ever getting married now ;-) What is your advice?

How do I feel about the counsel given that our children have claim upon their parents for maintenance until they are of age?

I have absolutely no problem with this - It really is the only reason I work and live for. The question around - what is "of age" - well for me it's obvious - until they die...... I truly believe that... I brought my children into the world, so it is mine and my husband's responsibility to love them and look after them forever, even with grandchildren.... and I guess a wife ;-)

How would you have answered these questions?


Yours in friendship,


Mxox