I find myself daydreaming quite often about the mommy I want to be. I can’t help but notice how electronics and technology have taken over and in a way stolen a special piece of childhood from kids. What happened to imagination? Going outside to play. Building things, discovering things, jumping in puddles, rolling down grassy hills. What happened to just being a plain old kid? Nowadays parents and children alike stare at their phones way too much. There is far less conversation that goes on at kitchen table because people are so tuned into their social media accounts. How many likes did I get? Who messaged me? Who posted what about what? Not realizing you’re loved ones are right in front of you. It’s sad because I too am guilty of picking up my phone in between commercials to check out the latest posts. I am guilty of sitting on the couch next to my husband emmerssed in what others are talking about on Facebook. I realize, my poor habits need to stop before I bring a child into this world.

One thing is for sure, I won’t want my kid(s) on a social media site when all I want to do is spend quality time with them. Or when asking how their day was at school. I want my kids to have similar experiences to my childhood. Going to the neighbors house, ringing the doorbell, and asking them face -to-face if they can come out to play. Swimming during summer, rolling down grassy hills, and perhaps the occasional game of Ding Dong Ditch. It was innocent fun. I want them to be creative and crafty. DIY projects are definitely in the future. I want them to learn to bake and cook while making a mess all over the counter. Just be a kid.

I won’t spoil them with tons of unnecessary toys and clothes. Instead, I will save for family vacations, first cars, and college. I will shower my children with love while being open and honest about life. We will eat dinner together as a family and talk about the best part of our day. I will allow my children to try any sport they want but will not accept them quitting halfway through the season if they dislike it. Instead, I will be their biggest cheerleader to get them through it. They will learn the value of a dollar. They will know about the homeless and less fortunate. I will teach them about respecting others, especially their elders.

My children will not be perfect, nor do I want them to be. I will teach them the trials of life and allow them the space to make their own decisions. I will be honest and forthcoming. They will know home is their safe zone. They will find out mommy isn’t perfect but she trys her very best. My promise is to put my family first and everything else after that. This is the mommy I want to be.