Of course I’d like to be the ideal mother,

But I’m too busy raising children.

~from the Comic Strip The Family Circus, by Bil Keane

Sometimes it’s easy to get overwhelmed at this time of year. The kids are adjusting to their new classrooms, getting back in the homework groove, and after school activities are in full swing. We often feel like hamsters on a wheel as we run in circles around town.  Sometimes it’s good to step back from the craziness of our day to remember we can not be all things to all people. It’s impossible to be super mom or dad no matter how hard we try.

Being a parent doesn’t mean we have to be perfect all the time. Our kids actually expect much less. Their needs are pretty simple and can be summed up in one word…LOVE. So next time you forget the lunchbox, run late for batting practice, or don’t have a gourmet meal on the dinner table, don’t stress. And remember, a smile and a hug go a long way when it comes to being the perfect parent.