From the Editor

My husband and I have completed the active parenting journey most of our readers are just beginning. We've talked a lot about what we accomplished together as parents, especially as we observe our three adult children going forth into their lives. Because parenting isn't taking up all our conscious time now, we're able to be more objective than we would have been a few years ago when each day meant hard work and careful attention to the three souls in our care.

Taking the long view with objectivity can bring up regrets, but mostly we're proud of ourselves for "going the distance" on a journey that seemed to loom ahead forever when our first child was born. We know now that we wouldn't trade the parenting experiences we've had for anything. What a privilege it has been for us to watch and encourage each other's growth as parents. How rich we are, not in material things, but in the wealth that comes from shared experience and commitment. I can honestly say that nothing else we've accomplished in our life together has been as rewarding as the investment we've made in parenting our three children. And now, we get to enjoy our two grandchildren as well. The love keeps growing.

So this Father's Day, celebrate the richness your family has brought to your life, and be proud of the commitment you've undertaken. Celebrate the blessings you've been given to make a real difference in the life of a child, and cherish your together time. It will be gone before you know it.

-Betty Freeman
Editor