One of the Most Important Things

Part of being an intentional parent is surrounding your child with amazing educators. They come in all shapes and sizes, but the great ones are priceless.

Putting any part of your child's education in someone else's hands is intimidating. I think lessons are an amazing opportunity for children to experience success and build self-esteem.

I honestly believe that the type of lesson a child takes does not matter. The instructor does. We have been extremely fortunate with Avery's riding instructor. We only happened upon, but she has been an absolute blessing in Avery's life. Avery has taken riding lessons for 3 years now (yes, she started at 3 1/2).

Lou, the riding instructor, is everything you could hope for. She is firm, but loving. She turns away little girl's who are only looking for a weekly pony ride. If you want to ride with her, you have to work for her. She is realistic about the responsibilities that come with horse ownership. Taking proper care of the horse is a large part of each lesson.




We've had less than stellar experiences with instructors. I believe lessons should be at least 50% about learning, balanced with 50% fun. My child is their customer, but I make the payments. My child being happy is extremely important, but I can make them happy at home for a much cheaper cost. A good instructor (of anything) realizes that.

I'm amazed at how far Avery has come with her riding. More importantly, Lou has fostered her confidence, her vocabulary, her posture and balance, and her sense of responsibility. Those lessons are priceless....just like a good instructor.



Don't be afraid to discontinue lessons if the situation isn't a good fit. The difference from 'ehhh' lessons and amazing lessons is astounding.

What is an Intentional Mother?

An intentional mother is a mother because she wants to be, not because of a situation.

An intentional mother plans for memories.

She takes advantage of opportunities.

She knows she is responsible for her children's education even if she doesn't homeschool (I don't).

An intentional mother seeks to always better the lives of her children.

She isn't rich, but she's resourceful.

She isn't busy, but she believes in having a plan for time.

She doesn't pressure her children, but she pushes them.

Her most sought after prize is a smile on her children's faces.

Meet the Cast....

I am the happy mother of two unperfect, but absolutely wonderful children.

Avery is 6 1/2.

She is sweet an adorable. She's an smart kid. She is getting ready to take first grade by storm this year. Avery's passion is riding lessons. She lives for them. She also is taking tap and acro. Avery loves being busy and getting things done. She is a future work-a-holic. Avery is asthmatic and has severe nut allergies.

Eli is 4 1/2.

Eli is the nicest kid you'll ever meet. He is kind to everyone. He is all boy and extremely active. He's a smart kid. He 'takes' acro, but would be just as happy spending the times running around the park. He has ADHD.

I'm the mom. I believe children aren't meant to be perfect. I hope to raise kind and compassionate kids. I hope they reflect on their childhood as a magical time full of memories. I hope the don't look back wondering how I 'did it all'.....I hope the see that they were worth it. They are.