OMG My Mom was right!

My mom often offered a wealth of wisdom, encompassing everything from practical advice to life lessons. Did I listen to any of them? At 20 years old HELL NO, but at 50 years HELL YES! As I have gotten older I have really listened to the older folks in my life some of what they said make such great sense! Please listen to us old folks we have been around the block! 

Practical Advice:

1.) Prioritize self-care:
My mom said that people didn't like to be around people who stink! She was a very blunt individual! She often emphasize the importance of taking care of oneself. Shower daily if you can. If not at least use a wash cloth and wash your body. Brush your teeth at least once in morning and once at night. Use deodorant.  

2.) Ask for help:
Don't hesitate to seek support from others, whether it's friends, family, or even school teachers, life can be a challenging journey. 

3.) Trust your instincts:
My mom encouraged us to trust our gut feelings or the dogs! Make decisions based on our own judgment rather than relying solely on external advice. 

4.) Learn to manage finances:
My mom advised her children to prioritize financial literacy and to avoid relying solely on a partner for financial security.  

5.) Take it one day at a time:
My mom often reminded us that life can be overwhelming, and it's important to focus on the present and not worry too much about the future. She also told us that your life is what you make of it and how you deal with it! To work hard, be nice to others and things will come to you that is meant to be! She totally trusted God!

6.) Be kind to others:
My mom often told us that the most important thing she expected from us was to treat others with respect and kindness, as it can lead to positive relationships and experiences. I can even hear her reminding me "You get more with sugar than salt".

Life Lessons:

1.) Embrace your individuality:
Encourage children to be true to themselves, regardless of societal expectations or the opinions of others. She tried hard to give me this but somehow I was always concerned how people viewed me. It hurt like hell in high school because kids could be so mean. However, I was able to become popular by working hard, being nice and volunteering for things. As I got older it has become less and less. At 63 I really could give a damn!

2.) Cherish the present:
Remind children to appreciate the small moments and experiences in life, as they can quickly become memories. This came to light to me when my great grandmother who we used to spend almost every Saturday with passed away and it showed me to cherish every moment. It also made me realize we have limited time with our parents so I spent a lot of time with. As I got older they were my friends! I enjoyed time with each of them and after my dad passed my mom became my best friend and confidente.

3.) Forgive and move on:
Teach children the importance of forgiveness, both for themselves and for others, and the value of letting go of grudges. Forgiveness sets you free! 

4.) Don't be afraid to try new things:
Encourage children to step outside their comfort zones and to embrace new experiences, as they can lead to growth and self-discovery. This is one area my mom wasn't very good at! However, I am not sure where I got the character because I am not afraid to do anything! It was a standing joke in my ex-husbands family they would say "If you want to know something ask Lisa and she will find out for us".

5.) Build strong relationships:
Mom often emphasize the importance of nurturing friendships and family connections, as they provide a sense of belonging and support. She wasn't good at this either but my Dad was and I inherited that trait from him. I am drawn to people and they are to me. My mom was shy unless she felt comfortable with you. When she did watch out!!

6.) Never stop learning:
  Encourage children to embrace a lifelong love of learning and to continuously seek new knowledge and skills. She was good at this! She was back in college at 52 years old!