Can I get a degree in Families & Parenting?

One of my bookshelves is full of these books that I wish I could take a whole college course with these as the texts, sit down with other parents, and an experienced psychology teacher (let's say) and discuss the principles in them.

This first book about love language I have not read, but have read bits of and Ted and I have talked about our "love languages" which was so helpful to know specifically what makes him feel loved; and for him to know what kinds of actions or words make me feel really loved. I am going to a "Love Conference" tomorrow at the college campus I work on (I LOVE being part of a college campus!!!) and one session is on this book! Cool!

This book by Kevin Leman was recommended to me when Maddie was tiny by a dear friend, Amy Jones Bowers, who had a small brood already; this author is an active Christian who teaches real values and morals and has high expectations with a lot of LOVE.

This is my favorite book hands-down on active parenting: teaching kids (starting at age 3) to do every type of household chore, maintenance (car, house, yard), save money, cook, sew, work, own their own problems and mistakes, responsibility, reliability, dependability, etc. It is full of HUMOR, real-life situations (raising 4 boys) and some fabulous lists/plans for specific things kids can learn at each age so that by age 18, they are 100% independent and self-reliant. Thanks to Carrie Jensen Lowe for recommending this treasure of parenting! This excellent book was one we read for a Time Out For Women bookclub back in about 2003 or 2004 in New Hampshire. Ted and I are re-reading it together and loving the principles of solid relationships, integrity, honesty, kindness, patience, forgiveness coupled with scriptures. I find myself reviewing the many quotes and principles that I underlined the first time I read it and wondering why I don't remember reading them??

I wish my memory was better, but I find that is only in practicing and discussing and reviewing what I love about these books that I begin to incorporate them into my life. We have got down the phrase "Validate" and are working daily on validating our children (in their woes particularly) and letting them feel like their pain or fears or discouragement is valid, is accepted and understood by us; and that usually lets them lift themselves (on their own) out of their discomfort or sadness.

We are super empowered by these books. We only know what we were raised with, and there is always more to learn. Ignorance was never bliss--I don't know where that is from, but I've heard it forever and it's true. Knowledge really is power. I want to remember these books and pass them on to our kids, so they are going into our blog annals forever. :)