[tiggerlily]

I am supporting my 25 year old daughter as she ends a lengthy and difficult relationship with her boyfriend. If I had MY way (I'm the mom...so I know what is best right?) I would have convinced her to end it months ago. Over and over I reminded myself that this was her path and that she would eventually make the right choice for her. Ouch. So now? Now, I dry her tears and pray that she does not give him another chance. Does parenting end??? Yikes! Cat

[kelsmum]

We never really seem to stop being Mums, even now my daughter is a Mum herself I still get a phone call when things get a bit tough going for her. I really wouldn't want it any other way because being a Mum is not just about loving and being there for your children when they are living at home it is being there 24/7. You are wonderful to be so supportive of your daughter and she will realise this one day. Even if (and I hope for you sake it doesn't happen) she does end up back with this man, you will always be her Mum and the one she will turn to in hard times. I truly hope that things work out for you both, but just be there to give her hugs and dry her tears when she needs you to.

[annharth]

I'm beginning to realize that once that little stick turns blue, it's never over. I wouldn't have it any other way, but being a parent really does change the way you look at the world. It doesn't matter how old they get, I still want to protect my children. I still feel responsible for their happiness and safety. In this way, it's a lot harder to have older children (teens). I think this is because the control is no longer there. You want just as much for them, but you don't ahve the power to make it ahppen anywmore.

I was told this analogy by a pediatrician once: When your children leave home, they will pack a suitcase. You can lay everything out on the bed (kidness, self-respect, honesty etc) that you would like them to take with them, but only they can choose what to include.

I always liked that one.

[annharth]

I'm beginning to realize that once that little stick turns blue, it's never over. I wouldn't have it any other way, but being a parent really does change the way you look at the world. It doesn't matter how old they get, I still want to protect my children. I still feel responsible for their happiness and safety. In this way, it's a lot harder to have older children (teens). I think this is because the control is no longer there. You want just as much for them, but you don't ahve the power to make it ahppen anywmore.

I was told this analogy by a pediatrician once: When your children leave home, they will pack a suitcase. You can lay everything out on the bed (kindness, self-respect, honesty etc) that you would like them to take with them, but only they can choose what to include.

I always liked that one.