Pat Anderson Today

Who wants to live with a quarreling, nagging and faultfinding woman?  That’s not the person my husband chose to marry and certainly not the kind of Mom my kids would choose to have for their mother.  And yet, too often I allow my moods to spill all over everyone.

I have been told all my mothering life that I set the tone for my home.  I’ve always wanted to participate in a little pitty party when I hear or remember those words.  The truth is though that I DO set the mood - like it or not.  (I’m not the only one but the main one.)  I may not like that amount of responsibility but I truly have found that a little (okay - sometimes a LOT) of discipline over my moods does make the home a more pleasant place for my family and as a result of the change in them; a more pleasant place for myself, as well.

I know it takes strength of character, but who better to be up to that challenge than Moms?  We do have the strength and we take our responsibilities seriously.  I have no doubt that all of us can reach inside of ourselves on the days we feel like letting our moods show  (we just don’t want to be described as quarreling, nagging, and faultfinding women) and draw out our inner resolve to make this home a happy home.

Some tips for bringing out the best in ourselves (and then resulting in bringing out the best in others):

• Smile - even when you don’t feel like it.  A smile changes the world, yours and others.
• Tell your loved ones that you love them.
• Treat your family at least as well as you treat your guests.  In actuality we should treat them better than our guests.  After all, these are the people we will have the longest and most impact on.
• Guard your mouth - it will keep you out of trouble!

So as Moms, lets take a challenge for today:  How wonderful an atmosphere can we create in our homes?  (Be prepared for a challenge.  Everytime you firmly resolve to do something you are tested on your commitment.  Stick to it and conquer!)

Create a Great Day!

Pat Anderson