Thoughts & Convictions on Creating a Tiny Markham

Paul & I made a decision to write a philosophy on raising Tiny Markham.  We thought this would be a great way to prepare for the future.  By discussing & writing down our thoughts & convictions now, we hopefully won't be surprised later.  The philosophy is a way for Paul & I to make important decisions in regards to how we will raise Tiny Markham.  We understand that this is our first child, so we may have some big ideas about how to raise a child.  That is why this philosophy is a working document that we will continue to add to & revise as Tiny Markham grows.  Paul explains it best in his introduction to our philosophy:

"This document is an exercise, not to provide a manifesto on parenting in general, but to offer some thoughts and convictions on what it means for us ourselves to be parents and raise a child.  We understand that to raise a child is to 'create a human life' - to shape passions, desires, attitudes, and behaviors for an individual and those whom he/she interacts with for a lifetime.  By 'thoughts' we mean ideas that come from our observations of other parents and their approach to this important task.  By 'convictions' we refer to something much deeper than a thought.  These convictions are fundamental to our commitment to parenting.  By definition, these are closely held beliefs based on our deepest values - those things we will 'fight for'.  Of course this document is forever an unfinished work, as every season of life brings a new reflection on decisions made, mistakes, and successes.  Finally, this document is first and foremost for us as we seek to put flesh on the bones of our child-raising values.  In addition, this is also for family and friends who join with us in the process of creating a life - the life of Tiny Markham."

I plan to blog in the future about what is written in our philosophy, but for now here are some of the topics we are discussing: life, parenting, animals, trees (& other green things), love & friendship, education, art, "success", money/belongings, work, farming, politics, religion, & food.

Feel free to give us ideas on other important topics/issues that we should include.  After all, we are going to be new to this parenting thing!