Want to be a better parent?

Work retail. Better yet, work retail in a middle class neighborhood. There isn't a single shift I work that I don't walk away with at least once having said, "I do not want to be that mom." Whether it is a mom who barks at her teenager for walking too slowly in front of her and "being in her way" or the mother who shouts in an irritated voice at her toddler who just wants her attention at the check out counter, there are constant examples of our societies lack of patience and tolerance for our children.

It breaks my heart to see an elementary-aged child swearing at a store employee simply because he is accustomed to hearing vulgar language at home and thinks it's normal. And don't even get me started on the mom who is a regular shoplifter and uses her child's stroller to smuggle clothes for herself out of the store. Did I mention the baby, who is barely old enough to walk, is right along side of her?

There is so much to be thankful for in life. I am thankful for our families who help out each week in caring for Mason. I am so thankful that both Tage and I have jobs and a place to live. I am ever so thankful that each day is a new opportunity to be a better mother to Mason.

Who would have thought working a side job could have such great benefits? I mean, besides the obvious benefit that allowed me to pick up this polo for Tage for 73 cents. (No kidding!)