The “Ride” That Never Ends………..

If you listen to the "Ethan and Lou Morning Show" on a semi-regular basis, you may be aware that my oldest son, Matt and his wife, Kelly are expecting their first child any day now!

Being a Dad three times over is, and will remain, the most challenging responsibility I will ever take on in my life, but, it's  also the most rewarding. Only a parent can truly perceive that "feeling" deep down inside whenever their child experiences success or failure. Ask any Mom or Dad and they'll  agree that parenting is just like a giant roller coaster filled with excitement, terror, screaming, laughter, and the feeling of relief when it's finally over. When you're a parent, this ride is never over.

As Matt and Kelly anxiously await their turn on this incredibly exciting roller coaster ride we call parenting, I find myself reflecting over the last 34 years as a Dad of three unique and amazing kids. If someone asked me, "What does it take to be a good parent"? Here's what I've learned.......spend time with your kids, hug them, get down on the floor and play with them, read to them, talk to them, even when they're too young to talk back. Respect is huge......Listen to them without judging, so as they grow into young adults, they know they have parents who truly care about what they're feeling. You don't have to fix EVERYTHING. Help them figure out some stuff for themselves. As parents, being on the same page in the discipline department is key and "Say what you mean and mean what you say."! To Matt and Kelly......"Never forget that your parents are here for you 24/7 for whatever you might need us for." Now, strap on your shoulder harness and get ready for the ride of your lives"!!