--George Leonard
Mom and I saw an amazing documentary together on Mother's day called "Ahead of Time" about the life of Ruth Gruber. I reflected on our relational progression. from angst-y adolescence to addiction to allying for the Messages Project recently- when we find a way to live from the heart (whatever our imperfections as Leonard describes), stop waiting for life to conform to our needs and wants, then we are focusing on the beautiful PROGRESSION of things and less wrapped up in perfection. As I've heard many times- It's about progress not perfection. Ah, sigh. relief.
I hope the journey my mom and i share will give you hope. As she and I focus more on overcoming our personal fears, helping others, and seeing our differences as strength rather than weakness (along with simply having more fun) we have found joy, true joy. The joy that literally gives strength.
The joy that doesn't require the other to change or adhere to our demands, but freely says, "I love the heart of you, I'm amazed by the silent pulse of perfect rhythm that exists in you- individual and unique, which connects us."-addendum: I'm amazed even when i don't understand.
Live courageously, let go courageously. In the letting go and living the pulse of our unique rhythm- connection grows into something bigger than pain or fear or misunderstanding- empowered we can as women face challenges we thought impossible, overcome fears we thought paralyzing, and help others find their heart's own unique rhythm.

Cheri's Latest Blog
Giving the Gift of Encouragement to Your Kids
Because many of my readers have asked for me to post the following words to say and not to say to children, I am sharing it again. Blessings to each of you!
Encouraging and Motivating Your Sons and Daughters
10 Encouraging Things to Say That Build Kids Up: Every Child Needs to Hear that:
§ I believe in you.
§ It’s a blessing to be your mom/dad (grandma, aunt)
§ I love you. Then be specific: I love your smile (energy, caring heart, etc.)
§ I noticed…(you got your homework done, or that you have a new friend).
That’s what I call responsibility (kindness, other character quality)
§ Keep up the good work. You’re making progress!
§ If more kids were like you, this world would be a better place.
§ There is a bright future ahead for you.
§ Thanks for what you did…(helping, doing chores, doing homework, etc.)
§ If all the 8 year old girls (or 10, 5, use child’s age) were lined up from all over the world and I could only pick one, I’d pick YOU
§ I admire or am proud of you for …(name a specific quality or trait)
10 Negative Phrases NOT TO SAY Because They Tear Kids Down
§ You’re no good; you’ll never amount to anything.
§ If you don’t stop doing that, I’m going to leave you here (or go home without you).
§ Why can’t you be more like your brother/sister?
§ I can’t stand you.
§ You are so much trouble.
§ I can’t wait until you’re grown up and out of here.
§ Don’t you ever listen? Where are your brains?
§ What’s WRONG with you?
§ You are stupid.
§ You’re giving me a headache (or stressing me out).
Cheri's Newest Book
Mother-Daughter Duet: Getting to the Relationship You Want with Your Adult Daughter
Written by a mother and daughter who have successfully navigated the minefield from distance and tension to acceptance and friendship, Mother-Daughter Duet helps moms open wide the door of communication so that daughters want to walk through it. Filled with personal anecdotes and based on proven principles, each chapter offers timeless wisdom as well as a daughter’s perspective. Often these principles apply to daughters-in-law as well.
The relationship between mothers and daug hters is intense, personal, complex, and unique. But you can have the loving, authentic bond you always dreamed of—when you learn the mother-daughter duet.
Hear C heri and Ali discuss "Mother/Daughter" Relationships on a great Chicago Radio show.
Latest Book Review: Shooting the rapids...surviving the raising, enjoying relationship, May 10, 2010
Join us on FaceBook Mother Daughter Duet
NEW BOOKS!
Latest News
Discussion and small group guide & Bible Study to accompany The Mom You’re Meant to Be and Connect With Your Grandkids
Free and downloadable on christianbookguides.com
Some of Cheri's Books Include:
- Mother-Daughter Duet: Getting To the Relationship
- You Want With Your Adult Daughter
- A Busy Woman’s Guide to Prayer
- The One Year Women’s Friendship Devotional
- Connect With Your Grandkids
- The One Year book of Praying Through the Bible
- Loving Your Spouse Through Prayer
- When Mothers Pray




