Single Parenting: New Family Patterns in 2009! 

Create New Family Patterns in 2009!   I am enthusiastic for my family to grow and learn together in 2009! I want to share a spontaneous and informal family meeting that developed after dinner tonight. Yes, healthy, open communication with no grunts or complaints from a 13 year old and 10 year old! I started the conversation with something like this, "I want to share something I discovered about myself....resolutions are tough and I often do not follow through with resolutions that I make even with good intentions and a kind heart. Furthermore, what I have learned is, what tends work is to decide what I am going to do this year and keep it short! I explained that, "it tends to be much easier for people to create new patterns then to break old ones". I asked my children to each think of one pattern they wish to create in the New Year and explained that they did had time to think if wanted. This positive approach appeared to be a hit with Alex and Bree...I did not ask them to change anything, focus on a weakness or express my expectations of them .....I shared a few new patterns I want to incorporate into my healthy life this year and ones I want to incorporate into our family routines and traditions. I was impressed by how Alex and Bree shared meaningful patterns they wish to develop in the New Year! This was so simple and yet worked so well for us! We created a new mission statement for our family, modified after school routines and shared traditions we all wish to create this year for our family. I will look forward to experiencing how we create new individual and family patterns in 2009! Simple Ideas to Add Meaning to Family Routines in 2009: 1. Develop a family mission statement. Encourage all to participate to feel valued, heard and a part of the family! 2. Have each family member share an inspirational quote, card or experience at the end of a family dinner. There are many packs of motivational cards and each family can pick a card and take turns reading. There are meaningful quotes on web or in magazines or pagers that all can bring to dinner to allow each member to find something that is meaningful to them. Or each person can share something they are grateful for today, experiences or add humor whatever works for your family. I think you will be amazed how much the family will look forward and remember these simple moments! 3. Take 30 minutes each day to be "present" with someone you love. Even if you work full time, have many responsibilities, I believe you will be amazed my how special 30 minutes can be! 4. Incorporate "Special" Family dinners to add excitement to daily family routines. For Example: 1. My Pick and Cook! Cooking at home, alternating chefs on Mondays 2. Asian Dinner! Thursday nights (including Chinese, Japanese, Mexican or Indian or whatever you decide! 3. Have breakfast for dinner on a rainy day.   Best to You and your Family 2009, My Life Instruction