Yesterday we made a quick stop into the central hub of Sandpoint socialization (Walmart). They always have some really good desserts or pastries that are on sale right by the main entrance and I’ve never thought about how often we stop and look at those entry bargains.

We were kind of in a hurry so we walked right by them. Except Judah. He stopped and started pointing at them while saying, “Ooh, that’s a good deal. Ooh, that’s a good deal.”

I looked at Tamra, while laughing, and said, “Wow, he totally learned that from us!” Neither one of us realized that browsing the snacks had become part of our routine.

It is moments like those that remind us of one of the most important lessons about parenting: you are ALWAYS teaching your kids something. Always! Think the language you’re using out in the garage won’t be heard? Think the jokes you make with your buddies won’t be repeated? Think the way we act towards authority won’t be picked up on? Wrong! Those little ears and eyes are learning even the most simple lessons when we don’t even realize it.

There’s an old expression that says, “Don’t do or say anything you wouldn’t do or say in front of Jesus.” I think you could aptly say, “Don’t do or say anything you wouldn’t want your kids to do or say–because they’re watching, listening, and mimicking everything you do!”