Family is where life begins. You don't actually pick your parents. They are, so to speak, where you land in life. You take their last name.

So many times, your mothers name is lost. But she is every bit a part of you. Your parents had parents. Your grandparents. They are your heritage. It's where family pride comes from. It's their backgrounds, religions, beliefs, DNA, and genetic predispositions that make you who you are today.

When you marry into a union, a partnership, you each bring qualities to it. He has done the "he" thing, and she has done the "she" thing, and together, we commit to the "We" thing. Your children are ambassadors for the family name. A family is built upon the foundation of pride, values, integrity and character.

"Willing to Thrive in 2025!"

America was founded on the principle of "We the people, in order to form a more perfect Union..." Not under the premise "We the government, in order to form more perfect people..."

What is your family name?

What was your maiden name?
Did you know any of your grandparents?
Which ones?
What was their last name?
Where were they born and when?
What do your know about their life?
What are your family traditions?

When you realize how many circumstances must come together to make you, there is a great respect for life, and a humility that encourages respect for mankind. It's easy to believe in God when you experience the miracle of pregnancy and childbirth. It is a life changing experience and earns you the title of "Mom."

When you give birth to your first baby, you don't even know what you don't know, so you don't even know what questions to ask! Organizations like Mothers of Preschoolers and La Leche League can help you connect with other mothers in a similar situation to make life easier.

When you are willing to use your mind's eye, you can see your own future.

You can work to create your future and make your dreams come true. Creating a future you desire to live in helps you control your destiny. It increases your chances of finding happiness.

• Where does your happiness come from? Be sure to work towards goals that include happiness and lifestyle.
  
• What do you know now that can help shape your future?
  
• Who do you want to become?
  
• Who are your heros?