Also known as peas.

On my usual morning commute to work I found myself very dissatisfied with the music that the majority of radio stations were playing, which is rather normal for me. I steer clear of rap, hip hop and the songs with non-sense lyrics, if you will (swearing, trash, sex, drugs, etc.). I recently found that I enjoy talk radio in the AM; mainly the broadcasters conversations that offer interesting, worth while information. I must have been in a rare mood this morning because even this wasn't peeking my interest.

After scanning through several stations I eventually found a topic that intrigued me. A conversation about teaching children manners. My ears perked up. I was completely engaged. The conversation began because one of the broadcasters found that he was not getting positive results from viewers when he mentioned how important it is to him that his children understand proper manners; opening a door for a lady, saying excuse me, please and thank you, etc.

I couldn't believe some of the things callers were saying. Encounters with screaming children in shopping centers, burping, farting, language. I'm sure we have all had our fare share of these types of behaviors.

You know, I could focus on the negative behavior but I'd rather focus on the positive aspects of the original radio conversation. I 100% agree with the broadcaster that talked about teaching his children to say please when asking for a snack or seconds at the dinner table. I believe it is very important to teach your children what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. Manners being one of those many things, one of those acceptable things.

He also mentioned how what are children and grand children will be is what the future will be. They are our future. It is truly up to us to build them into proper, respectful human beings so that the future population will be more positive.

I believe acts of kindness, being polite and courteous is very important. I have already began teaching E a few things. She has learned please (also known as "peas") and thank you, which is proof that starting at a very young age is possible.

What are you doing to teach your children and grand children what is acceptable and unacceptable? I would like to see what viewers have to say on this topic. Be sure to comment as others can learn from your story too.

Dear Baby E,

Dear Baby E,

In a little more than 2 short months you will join us in this big wide world. In 2 short months I will hold you in my arms and become your mother.

I'm terrified. And anxious. And very very excited. It is much like the feeling which you will someday know once a year on the night before Christmas. But, this I expect will be the greatest gift I'll ever receive. Yes, baby, I anticipate your arrival that much.

Last night, laying next to your daddy, tears streamed down my face as I thought of how unbelievably happy we are. Happy about becoming parents. Happy to look forward to another part of our future together. I drempt of your birth, of holding you, of nursing you. Your eyes were just like your daddy's. You were so beautiful. And when I held you, you were so quiet, like you knew you were safe. I hope your arrival is as amazing as this dream felt.

I can't wait to teach you how to wave, sing your ABCs, tie your shoes and know right from wrong. I want to teach you to love the little things like playing board games and taking walks. I want to teach you how to make life an adventure, a safe one of course. And I can't wait to watch you learn.

I look forward to seeing your tiny little toes
I know not every day will be a walk in the park. That some days it will seem like to much rain for going to the park, even if the sun is shining. Their will be days when I have little patience. But, I promise you, I will be the best mother I can be, everyday. I will always give every ounce of love and affection I have to you. I will give 100% to being the best momma I can be.

All my love,
Your soon-to-be Momma

Keep loving.