in {her} shoes...mary beth

today's in {her} shoes post is a bit different from others.  our guest blogger today is a momma that i've known all my life because she's my mommy!  and unlike other shoes posts, i'm providing the intro to her q-and-a.

foreward from andie:

my mom has always been a very influencial part of my life.  as a young single mother, i imagine it wasn't always easy to take care of me.  after working all day, she came home at night and cared for me.  but she built up a great support group of family around us.  she did all she could to ensure that i could be involved in all the school functions i wanted to be in. 

we've had the standard ups and downs...

the drifting away from each other that the teen years brings. 

the awkward relationship of the early 20s

and finally...

the shifting of the relationship to one based on friendship 

 so, enough of my rambling...here are a few thoughts from my mama, Mary Beth

 

what is the most challenging part of being the type of mom you are?

letting go and allowing my child to make mistakes...I know that making mistakes is a part of growing, learning and becoming your own person, but as a mom, I always want to protect my daughter....keep her safe from danger and hurt

                                                                             
what is the most rewarding?

watching as the "caterpillar" turns into a beautiful, strong butterfly....with wings that can take on the world

what do you think are the most important value(s) parents can instill in their children?

honesty, dignity, love, faith, courage, self-assurance (no particular order)

if your child could describe you in 3 words, what would they be? 

loving, nurturing, dedicated        

sidenote from andie: she's right. that's exactly how i'd describe her.