What it's like to be a parent: It's one of the hardest things you'll ever do but in exchange it teaches you the meaning of unconditional love. Nicholas Sparks     

Do you ever feel like you are wearing the "Bad Parent" tee shirt, broadcasting your emotions when it comes to parenting your children? Parenting, even on the best of days, can leave one feeling isolated, frustrated and guilty. If you've never felt alone in your parenting, then you are alone! We've all been there, done that.

I (Lisa) remember distinctly questioning myself, wondering if I am ruining my kids by not . . . We can all fill in the gap.

Not enough: quality time, meals together, family devotions, family get-aways, reading time, homework time . . .

We can all do guilt really well! I was (still am) an expert in this field. Now living in the empty nest, I have perspective and hindsight. My son and daughter and their spouses are some of my best friends. Here's a few things I have learned in the journey of parenting.

• No two families are alike. Quit comparing.
• Offer grace - to yourself and to your kids.
• Let it go . . . the guilt, the high expectations, the unnecessary pressure to do more.
• There is no perfect parent, stop trying to be one. You will make mistakes - learn and move forward.
• Be a friend (have fun) but don't forget to be the parent (draw the line).
• Enjoy the journey and your kids . . . and lean on God (He fills in a lot of gaps).

Joining us this week on Girlfriendit Radio are two very special guests:

Tricia Goyer, author, speaker, radio host and family life/teen expert. Tricia has authored several books on family and parenting, as well as co-written with Max Lucado and Robin Jones Gunn. You will be inspired and walk away with some great insights and tips.

Suzi Lantz, a girlfriend from the Church Planting Ministry called Bloom. She is the Missional Community Resourcing Developer at LoveCanton, where she and her husband have been busy planting the church.