My mother was a horrible mother. She never told us she loved us, she never complimented us at all. She always criticized my sister and I. To say the least we were never close.
I swore that when I became a parent I would do everything opposite of my mother. My husband said I learned to be a good mother by horrible example. My daughters are the best daughters ever. They are my best friends. They are also productive adults. I am extremely proud of them. They did not grow up without rules and guidelines. But if they didn't like something to eat I didn't make them eat it. I told them daily that they were beautiful and I loved them. We did things together. I was always there for them.
My oldest daughter lives in Minneapolis and we talk daily. She is the district manager for a retail store and she is only 27. I am extremely proud of her.
My youngest daughter is in heaven with our Lord. She was the joy of my life and I miss her, but I know I will see her again someday. I also talk to her everyday.
I think love and involvement are what makes good kids. You have to be involved in your kids life. You have to show them love. Also there is no game plan to raise great kids. Every child and every parent is different. But love really does make a difference.