Friday, February 15, 2008

Parenting Classes

So Ben signed us up for a parenting course that takes place here at the community center located in our apartment complex and I just got back from the second session. Admittedly, I've been rather prideful when it comes to these meetings, particularly after the first one last week. When I walked in, I had to take a double look to make sure I was in the right meeting because based on my prideful, stereotypical judgment I could have sworn I was in an AA meeting. After today's meeting and a week full of praying and wondering why the heck I'm so dang prideful I'm feeling particularly grateful for things that I routinely take for granted like two parents who actually love each other and work together for the well being of their children (even after they're grown), a happy, healthy childhood absent from abuse and hate, and of course being raised to know, recognize, and acknowledge God's love and will for me. I hadn't realized to what degree these three things actually put me, and consequently my children, ahead of the game - so to speak. I obviously didn't do anything in this life to warrant these blessings, as proved by my selfish thoughts (If only you could have been in my head that first meeting, atrocious!!!). I am not a perfect parent, that is UNDOUBTABLLY SURE. I lose my patience with the best of them!! So in conclusion...pray for my prideful soul that I might get something out of these classes and become humble...without it having to be to painful on my part!! No curses of fatal illnesses, injuries, financial ruin etc. etc. Thanks! And to my parents who did, and continue to do a wonderful job raising and teaching me - much love and God Bless!!!


Mom and Dad Dutson

6 comments:

Stephen + Lauren Reber said...

I have never forgotten what the hospital worker who pushed me from my room to my car (after delivering Kayla) said, "It's always so nice to see a mother AND father bringing a baby home." It's so true that kids with two solid parents have such an advantage. Course, I bet i could benefit from some parenting classes. I'm anxious to hear what you learn.

Sarah said...

Nicole, you are so funny! You are seriously one of the least prideful people that I know, and you could not be a sweeter mom to your cute boys! I totally miss getting to be around you so much as mommies together because you are such a great example! It looks like you learned from some pretty awesome parents :) That picture of your parents is really cute.

I will pray for you that you won't need to be struck by lightning for your prideful thoughts (I am SO KIDDING!) Seriously, you are so funny.

Ambyr said...

Niki, you crack me up! Hilarious, really. Mom and Dad Dutson still look good! Tell them hi for me...it's been so long!

Anna M said...

Good luck! I think if you recognize you're an imperfect parent, you're not that prideful!

kldutson said...

Thanks Niki! We love you and are especially grateful for the good parents both you and Ben are to our grandsons! Luke and Cub are blessed! Love MOM

Heather Ashby said...

Aw cute tribute and well deserved. Your parents are pretty great!