Raising a Woman.

First, this isn't to say raising a girl is easier or harder than raising a boy. But it is International Women's Day and my daughter is asleep taking a nap (which she normally doesn't do) so I am getting a moment to write about raising a girl.

I also got a moment to take a picture of her sleeping. Another rarity.


I posted the above photo on Instagram with a quote I found that sums up one of my deepest wishes for Lucille.

"Never grow a wishbone, daughter, where your backbone ought to be." Clementine Paddleford

If you don't know about Clementine Paddleford - go read about her now. I'll wait.

Ok, now back to her quote. I want Lucille to be strong and determined and able to stand up for what she wants and what she believes in. I hope that I show her that daily. I don't want her to be full of regrets or unfulfilled hopes and dreams. 

And I as a mom need to make sure I don't stand in her way. I need to encourage her independence and her ability to say no. Sometimes it isn't easy, but I hope I do alright by her.

Are you a mom or dad of a daughter? What are your hopes for her? Are you doing all you can to encourage her to be an independent thinker? What about our sons? Are we raising them to respect women and encourage them as well? Today is a great day to think about these things. And maybe make some tiny tweaks in the way we parent. I know I will.

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