Listening to Dr. Joy Brown on the radio at work, she mentioned how children learn very early on about their parents personalities and know who to turn to when they need a favorable answer.

This got me thinking about my family.


When we kids were younger, my sister, brother, and I, we knew what my dad said was the law. Even if my mom agreed on something we wouldn't get excited till' we confirmed that my dad was okay with our mom's decision. Only then would we actually go crazy with our plans.


But as we got into our teenage years, it seems our mom became more the decision maker...firm one at that. We won't breathe a sigh of relieve until we have made sure our mom is happy with the decision.


Before I realized this change I would first talk to my dad. Then would go to my mom and all I would say is "I could do this, this, and this because dad agreed to it." And I was shocked when I realized this wasn't enough anymore.


Now, we don't need to hold our breath for either of our parents. Yes, we do talk to our parents about situation that is in our lives but it is for advice rather than permission.


Its just amazing how many different changes we go through with our parents and relationships in general. The greatest accomplishment is when you can sustain a authentic, open relationship, with all the ups and downs, and make it last a lifetime.