Being a parent can be the greatest blessing in the world, but it sure isn’t the easiest thing. Growing up I was always a pain in the butt. Especially with my mom, she was constantly doing things that my "dad" at the time just couldn't do. Then as my dad, Kris, came along they BOTH had to deal with my sister and I. Knowing that parenting was hard I knew that there were some amazing things to come along with it. So, I decided to interview my mom with a few parenting questions, here’s what she thinks about her role as a parent. Her answers make me love and appreciate her even more.

Q. What’s one of the greatest things about being a parent?

A. The immense love that warms your inner being when you simply think of your child/children.

Q. What’s one of the hardest things about being a parent?

A. Watching your child feel pain.

Q. Looking back, would you change anything about being a parent if you had to do it all over again?

A. Try to not care so much about things that may not matter as much—like a clean house. Laugh more, let loose and have more fun.

Q. What advice would you give to a new parent?

A. Love them; be there for them always. Even when you think it's too much, it isn’t. Even when you don't think they need you because they are getting older, they need you more so don't forget to check in with them. Keep loving them, and hugging them, and kissing them. Don't ever stop telling them how special they are to you. When you’re a parent, you shed tears, you bleed, you hurt, and you give everything. You love unconditionally, even if your child gets on your last nerve.

I came across this quote the other day by a man named Bob Keeshan: “Parents are the ultimate role models for children. Every word, movement and action have an effect. No other person or outside force has a greater influence on a child than the parent.”

This quotation is a perfect example of what it means to be a parent. When you are a parent, you are that little child’s everything. You have the power to teach them how to have a good, successful life in this often cruel world.

What kind of parent are you, what kind of parent will you be, or what kind of parent do you want to be?