When you look at stressful times in your life, how did you cope?
How did you get by? Did you take life lessons from your experiences?
I feel like (so far) in my 30's, I've learned more about myself than ever before...maybe I was too young and stupid to gain perspective before -- but I feel like I "get it" now. My faith has definitely helped me...here's my recent story of faith...to make a very long story short.
As many people know, I took some time off work to pursue my Masters full-time. It ended up being a very stressful time with childcare, school, working (I taught part-time to pay my tuition)...and reflecting back, I just want to say I am SO glad that the semester is almost over! After this term, I will be off for the summer & will take courses on a part-time basis... If I feel like it, that is ; )
I'm heading back to work this week & next week to do some education days....on my favourite topic - breastfeeding! I was elated when they asked me back to provide some inservices on the topic.
My official return to work date is at the beginning of May, but it will be so nice to get back into the swing of things again. I also requested to work 4 days a week until the fall because finding childcare for 3 kids can be a challenge to say the least (as well as cost you an arm and a leg!) How lucky am I that I have a understanding and accomodating manager?
For so long, I have been trying to figure out what to do -- trying to plan -- trying to look ahead -- trying to be in control.
As the events of the past 1/2 year unfolded, I lost the control that I so desperately grasp onto and thrive on in my life.
When our "new" nanny left unexpectedly, and my plate was overflowing with responsibilities, I lost all the control I had. There was nothing left for me to grasp onto. It was definitely not my best moment. I felt like things were spiralling...I regretted my decisions and wondered why I even tried to do my Masters with 3 young kids. We had no nanny, no childcare options and a whole lot of work to do...
I wondered...are things ever going to work out? Would I ever feel happy again?
Now, things are all falling into place. A dear friend has offered to take the little boys on their nursery school days. Another new friend has offered me a full-time spot for both boys while my oldest boy is in school. Another dear friend with a home daycare offered full-time spot for all 3 boys in the summer!! WOW! Our previous nanny (not the one who left unexpectedly) who was with us for almost 3 years has offered to come back to look after the kids 3 days each week!!
All this information was waiting for me when I returned from our vacation. I almost couldn't believe it, it was too good to be true! Childcare is something that stresses me right out. I spent a lot of time worrying about what we would do. This was wonderful news.
With some reading, soul searching and in general trying to be kinder to myself - I realized I am not in control. Nor do I need or want to be. God is in control & that's just fine with me!
I have a friend on facebook & she has mentioned a few times that she's so happy she's not "the boss" and she knows that God has a plan for her life. She's thankful that God already knows exactly what he's doing with her life...so really, we have no choice but to go with it. I think that's so important to remember. Just go with it...great advice, particularly for planner types like me.
It's reassuring, calming, freeing to know that everything is going to work out in the end - one way or another. There is a reason for difficult times in our lives. There are reasons that God wants us to endure these tough times. All the tough times I've had have made me a better person. In the heat of the moment, I felt weak & overwhelmed...but now - I can reflect and know that everything was fine and everything works out in the end. It's going to be OK!
I feel very blessed that our nanny wants to come back to look after the kids.
She is one in a million, and I'm so happy she is part of our lives.
Overall, I think I've grown up a lot.
I know I still have a long way to go.
I'm looking forward to routines again, and being back at work with an amazing & supportive group of people. They truly are wonderful and I am always amazed by their talents and kindness.
My hubby and I feel refreshed and relaxed after our trip, the kids had great experiences, spring is just around the corner...and childcare options have worked out (and more than one option is available!?!)
As I look back, I can now honestly say that I'm so glad to have had this tumultuous but affirming journey : )
For those who wish to read ... Proverbs 3:5 provides a great reminder to us -- Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will direct your paths.
Life is good.
: )
Keri
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
I wish I spoke Spanish!
Hola!!!
Woot, woot, woooohooo woot!We got back from an AMAAAAZING vacay! We were in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and it was the best-trip-ever. The entire fam went - yep all 3 kiddies and mom & pop.
Our friends got married on a beautiful Wednesday afternoon on the beach. The resort behind us, and the sand beneath us...the Atlantic Ocean in front of us...it was wonderful. I think next time I get married (um...I mean renew my vows people!) I will do it in a tropical locale.
Travelling with the kids was actually much easier and enjoyable than anticipated. The first night in Montreal before our flight was not fun. I began to worry that the entire trip would be whiny, crying, fighting, refereeing, and q2min bathroom breaks (that's nurse talk for every 2 minutes, FYI).
The kids got better, and the entire trip did not consist of whining, crying, fighting, refereeing, however it did consist of what felt like q2min bathroom breaks.
That's yet another bonus of having boys..."Oh just pee on the palm tree and walk away quickly!" haaaaaaaaaaa!
I have had a few people ask how I prepared for the trip and what things were helpful to bring to an all inclusive resort when travelling with small children.
Here is my list (in no particular order)
- white wine for the hotel the night before the flight. Oh crap, this is supposed to be about the kids right?
Okay, I'll try again...
- SNACKS. Lots of them. Yes, you may be going to an all inclusive resort, but do you really want to run to the buffet every time Timmy wants a little nibble? No. Bring a large box of Nutrigrain bars at least.
I bought small bags of Smartfood, Sunchips and Cheezies (thank-you Costco) as well. Pretzels, Goldfish, whatever you like. We also brought a huge box of PC granola bars - chocolate covered of course.
I also brought soy milk for my little lactose intolerant dude. I had 2 cartons left over & left it for our cute little maid Francio Del Rosario. I just love her name so I had to type it all out. : )
- POOL TOYS. From the dollar store! Sure, you can buy them at the resort, but a) it will cost you your first born and b) they may not have what Timmy wants. Get a few things a head of time.
- SAND TOYS - see above regarding your first born. Pack clothes inside the pails.
- life jacket or other quality flotation device.
I meant to bring the puddlejumpers we have for the little boys, but I forgot. Thankfully there were inflatable life jackets available in the resort store. They only charged $8 per jacket.
To be honest, I would've paid $20. I could relax somewhat knowing that my kids were toddling around with their life jackets on...rather than worrying they were going to fall in the pool the entire time.
- A STROLLER for the little ones. My youngest is almost 3 so I didn't think he would need one. I ended up mooching a stroller off our friends a few times, and I wished I had brought one too. We used it mostly for naptime, but it was so handy to have!
- GUM for the plane
- Crayons & colouring books and stickers for downtime (again, head to the dollar store - you can leave the maid or other staff whatever you don't use. It's nice, do it!)
- iPhone, iPad or other fun devices. Nintendo DS perhaps? Charge 'em before you leave!
- Drugs.
This is important:
For the kids:
Advil
Tylenol
Gravol
Benadryl
Bug spray depending on where you are going (D.R was flagged with malaria for a little while)
Sunscreen. Bring more than you think you'll need. Spray on is my new favourite thing. Enjoyed it so much I bought a 2nd bottle of SPF 25 in the resort store for the amazing price of $20 USD. So worth it.
For the adults:
same as above, but add Pepto Bismol, Immodium, Advil Cold & Sinus (or other similar product)
- first aid kit with gauze, polysporin, bandaids etc.
I brought antibiotics in case of travellers diarrhea. Check out your local health unit for more info.
None of us got sick, woot woot!
Don't eat the pasta salad, you'll be fine!
We did not immunize against Hep A. We did not take Dukoral. We did not drink or brush our teeth with the water. I showered with pursed lips. I know I have a little bit of OCD, but that's okay.
I came home relaxed and refreshed. I am tanned and my Vitamin D has finally returned to borderline normal values...I have a week off at the end of April & I'm already trying to convince the hubby to go away again. I'd like to go somewhere that I can practice my Spanish.
So far, I know 3 very important phrases:Vino Blanco por favor?
Cerveza por favor?
Gracias!
: )
Keri
Our friends got married on a beautiful Wednesday afternoon on the beach. The resort behind us, and the sand beneath us...the Atlantic Ocean in front of us...it was wonderful. I think next time I get married (um...I mean renew my vows people!) I will do it in a tropical locale.
Travelling with the kids was actually much easier and enjoyable than anticipated. The first night in Montreal before our flight was not fun. I began to worry that the entire trip would be whiny, crying, fighting, refereeing, and q2min bathroom breaks (that's nurse talk for every 2 minutes, FYI).
The kids got better, and the entire trip did not consist of whining, crying, fighting, refereeing, however it did consist of what felt like q2min bathroom breaks.
That's yet another bonus of having boys..."Oh just pee on the palm tree and walk away quickly!" haaaaaaaaaaa!
I have had a few people ask how I prepared for the trip and what things were helpful to bring to an all inclusive resort when travelling with small children.
Here is my list (in no particular order)
- white wine for the hotel the night before the flight. Oh crap, this is supposed to be about the kids right?
Okay, I'll try again...
- SNACKS. Lots of them. Yes, you may be going to an all inclusive resort, but do you really want to run to the buffet every time Timmy wants a little nibble? No. Bring a large box of Nutrigrain bars at least.
I bought small bags of Smartfood, Sunchips and Cheezies (thank-you Costco) as well. Pretzels, Goldfish, whatever you like. We also brought a huge box of PC granola bars - chocolate covered of course.
I also brought soy milk for my little lactose intolerant dude. I had 2 cartons left over & left it for our cute little maid Francio Del Rosario. I just love her name so I had to type it all out. : )
- POOL TOYS. From the dollar store! Sure, you can buy them at the resort, but a) it will cost you your first born and b) they may not have what Timmy wants. Get a few things a head of time.
- SAND TOYS - see above regarding your first born. Pack clothes inside the pails.
- life jacket or other quality flotation device.
I meant to bring the puddlejumpers we have for the little boys, but I forgot. Thankfully there were inflatable life jackets available in the resort store. They only charged $8 per jacket.
To be honest, I would've paid $20. I could relax somewhat knowing that my kids were toddling around with their life jackets on...rather than worrying they were going to fall in the pool the entire time.
- A STROLLER for the little ones. My youngest is almost 3 so I didn't think he would need one. I ended up mooching a stroller off our friends a few times, and I wished I had brought one too. We used it mostly for naptime, but it was so handy to have!
- GUM for the plane
- Crayons & colouring books and stickers for downtime (again, head to the dollar store - you can leave the maid or other staff whatever you don't use. It's nice, do it!)
- iPhone, iPad or other fun devices. Nintendo DS perhaps? Charge 'em before you leave!
- Drugs.
This is important:
For the kids:
Advil
Tylenol
Gravol
Benadryl
Bug spray depending on where you are going (D.R was flagged with malaria for a little while)
Sunscreen. Bring more than you think you'll need. Spray on is my new favourite thing. Enjoyed it so much I bought a 2nd bottle of SPF 25 in the resort store for the amazing price of $20 USD. So worth it.
For the adults:
same as above, but add Pepto Bismol, Immodium, Advil Cold & Sinus (or other similar product)
- first aid kit with gauze, polysporin, bandaids etc.
I brought antibiotics in case of travellers diarrhea. Check out your local health unit for more info.
None of us got sick, woot woot!
Don't eat the pasta salad, you'll be fine!
We did not immunize against Hep A. We did not take Dukoral. We did not drink or brush our teeth with the water. I showered with pursed lips. I know I have a little bit of OCD, but that's okay.
I came home relaxed and refreshed. I am tanned and my Vitamin D has finally returned to borderline normal values...I have a week off at the end of April & I'm already trying to convince the hubby to go away again. I'd like to go somewhere that I can practice my Spanish.
So far, I know 3 very important phrases:Vino Blanco por favor?
Cerveza por favor?
Gracias!
: )
Keri
Monday, February 21, 2011
My new favourite song
Happy Family Day to my Canadian friends!
Being a mom is definitely rewarding...but do you ever have those days when nothing seems to go right, even if they are small, annoying things?
Don't get me wrong, it's been wonderful to be home more, and working (outside the home) less but somedays I really feel the frustrations of motherhood more than others (don't we all!?!)
I found this song on youtube - it's Francesca Battistelli's new single.
She's a mom & a contemporary Christian singer...I liked it so much, I had to share it!
It made me realize the small things aren't all that big of a deal in the big scheme of things...and it also made me remember that everything that we go through, happens for a reason!
I hope this song lifts your spirits like it did for me.
: )
Being a mom is definitely rewarding...but do you ever have those days when nothing seems to go right, even if they are small, annoying things?
Don't get me wrong, it's been wonderful to be home more, and working (outside the home) less but somedays I really feel the frustrations of motherhood more than others (don't we all!?!)
I found this song on youtube - it's Francesca Battistelli's new single.
She's a mom & a contemporary Christian singer...I liked it so much, I had to share it!
It made me realize the small things aren't all that big of a deal in the big scheme of things...and it also made me remember that everything that we go through, happens for a reason!
I hope this song lifts your spirits like it did for me.
: )
Friday, February 4, 2011
Cabin Fever
Is anyone else finding winter really LONG this year?
Excruciatingly LONG?
I am SO done with winter. I've done my duties pulling the sled around the neighbourhood endlessly, shovelled the driveway multiple times, and put on mittens, boots, hats, snow pants a million times by now - and I don't think that's an exaggeration.
Winter is seeming to be never ending this year - and it could be due to the fact that I'm working out of the house only one day a week & I start to get a little cabin feverish when the temperature plummets to -15 or -20 degrees Celsius and we're all stuck indoors. Little boys' wrestling matches are inevitable...it's even worse if it occurs while I'm trying to get them dressed for the frigid temperatures...darnit, I just turned my head for a minute to find one matching pair of mittens and poof, they are rolling all over the mudroom floor and THEN all of a sudden all the winter gear they were wearing has somehow been removed. Arghhhh!
Add a husband who is doing non-stop renovations to our new "income property" and I can officially say I have cabin fever. Ummmmm, adult conversation anyone?
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for getting outside in the winter months to play and run off energy but when the wind chill is THAT chilly I think it's inhumane to be outdoors for long periods.
So I've started to be a little more creative lately to keep the kids busy.
2) Playgroups - We've been checking out the local playgroups in our city. Yes, you have to leave the house, but it's worth the trek in the cold weather once you arrive to the playgroup. It's free and the kids have a great time playing with different toys and different kids. They usually have crafts and circle time too - 2 1/2 hours of relaxing play time, doesn't get much better!
3) Help mom clean. Okay, it sounds a little mean, but they love this, I swear. All you need is a spray bottle, some cloths or paper towels, and vinegar & water. With supervision, they spray the windows, and floors with this natural cleaning product...and voila, my house is cleaner, and the kids are entertained. They are so proud that they "helped" mom : )
4) Bath time in the daytime -- they love this too. After they're done, I wrap them up in towels and dry their hair with my hair dryer. Again, they think this is the greatest thing! If the timing's right, they get dressed into warm clothes right from the dryer. So sweet. (And a few less items for me to fold, even sweeter)
5) Dance! This is probably our favourite activity.
No Americano is our new favourite song. The boys dance to this and love every minute. I've gotten it on video a few times & they think it's hilarious to watch it afterwards. I also recently downloaded the "Hey" hockey anthem (c'mon, you know all the words: Hey...heyyyyyy ... hhhhhhey) And remember 2 Unlimited?? They eat it up!
Here's a little Jersey Shore video for you to enjoy -- my boys dance to the same song the Jersey boys do...but I have to say, I think mine are much cuter : )
: )
Well, that's all for now - I hope you're keeping safe and warm!
What are you doing to beat cabin fever at your house this winter?
Excruciatingly LONG?
I am SO done with winter. I've done my duties pulling the sled around the neighbourhood endlessly, shovelled the driveway multiple times, and put on mittens, boots, hats, snow pants a million times by now - and I don't think that's an exaggeration.
Winter is seeming to be never ending this year - and it could be due to the fact that I'm working out of the house only one day a week & I start to get a little cabin feverish when the temperature plummets to -15 or -20 degrees Celsius and we're all stuck indoors. Little boys' wrestling matches are inevitable...it's even worse if it occurs while I'm trying to get them dressed for the frigid temperatures...darnit, I just turned my head for a minute to find one matching pair of mittens and poof, they are rolling all over the mudroom floor and THEN all of a sudden all the winter gear they were wearing has somehow been removed. Arghhhh!
Add a husband who is doing non-stop renovations to our new "income property" and I can officially say I have cabin fever. Ummmmm, adult conversation anyone?
Don't get me wrong, I'm all for getting outside in the winter months to play and run off energy but when the wind chill is THAT chilly I think it's inhumane to be outdoors for long periods.
So I've started to be a little more creative lately to keep the kids busy.
We've done the regular crafts, painting and colouring activities.
We've baked brownies, muffins and banana bread....
I've even searched for nursing jobs in Florida...(No, I'm not kidding)
C'mon honey, couldn't we move there, even just for a couple of years 'til the kids can put their OWN mitts, scarves, hats, boots and snowpants on?
Okay, so realistically to pass the time on those long cold days, we've had a few other fun ideas - and my oldest gets credit for the first one!
We've baked brownies, muffins and banana bread....
I've even searched for nursing jobs in Florida...(No, I'm not kidding)
C'mon honey, couldn't we move there, even just for a couple of years 'til the kids can put their OWN mitts, scarves, hats, boots and snowpants on?
Okay, so realistically to pass the time on those long cold days, we've had a few other fun ideas - and my oldest gets credit for the first one!
Here are a few things we've been doing at our house beat the winter blues & cabin fever:
1) After buying the boys new swimming gear (hats, swim shirts and trunks) for our upcoming trip to the Dominican Republic, it became ISLAND time in our living room.
Everyone wore their sunny weather gear, we took the pillows off the couch and even used the dog's bed as an "island". They had so much fun playing this, I even served them dinner on their respective "islands".
Everyone wore their sunny weather gear, we took the pillows off the couch and even used the dog's bed as an "island". They had so much fun playing this, I even served them dinner on their respective "islands".
2) Playgroups - We've been checking out the local playgroups in our city. Yes, you have to leave the house, but it's worth the trek in the cold weather once you arrive to the playgroup. It's free and the kids have a great time playing with different toys and different kids. They usually have crafts and circle time too - 2 1/2 hours of relaxing play time, doesn't get much better!
3) Help mom clean. Okay, it sounds a little mean, but they love this, I swear. All you need is a spray bottle, some cloths or paper towels, and vinegar & water. With supervision, they spray the windows, and floors with this natural cleaning product...and voila, my house is cleaner, and the kids are entertained. They are so proud that they "helped" mom : )
4) Bath time in the daytime -- they love this too. After they're done, I wrap them up in towels and dry their hair with my hair dryer. Again, they think this is the greatest thing! If the timing's right, they get dressed into warm clothes right from the dryer. So sweet. (And a few less items for me to fold, even sweeter)
5) Dance! This is probably our favourite activity.
No Americano is our new favourite song. The boys dance to this and love every minute. I've gotten it on video a few times & they think it's hilarious to watch it afterwards. I also recently downloaded the "Hey" hockey anthem (c'mon, you know all the words: Hey...heyyyyyy ... hhhhhhey) And remember 2 Unlimited?? They eat it up!
Here's a little Jersey Shore video for you to enjoy -- my boys dance to the same song the Jersey boys do...but I have to say, I think mine are much cuter : )
: )
Well, that's all for now - I hope you're keeping safe and warm!
What are you doing to beat cabin fever at your house this winter?
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
GIVEAWAY! Wean Green - baby food storage solutions
I recently had the opportunity to review a Canadian made product called WEAN GREEN.
I am ALL for using glassware for food storage and freezing - the amount of chemicals, such as BPA that are actually found in our bodies is a little frightening.
These products were designed by a mom of 2; and I was so pleased to see the sample arrive in my mail.
A little about Melissa, the awesome mompreneur: Wean Green was founded in 2008 by Melissa Gunning, the proud mom of two little weaners, Rayne and Talia. Melissa has combined her passion for healthy living and happy babies, and channeled it into Wean Green. Her creativity and enthusiasm radiate through every aspect of the business, and she is proud to be the hard-working mom behind Wean Green.
The products are great! I love the vibrant colour, easy snap on/off lids, and they are GLASS which is great (I am ANTI-plastic, I must confess!!) They can be used for other food products as well (think smarties, goldfish, Cheerios!) I'm hoping to interview Melissa in the near future - for the readers out there who are interested in starting their own business - I know I'm interested in hearing how she got started and would love to hear her advice for women and moms in business.
Here's the scoop: (For more visit Wean Green here)
Wean Cubes are a perfect addition to your kitchen when starting your baby on solid foods. Homemade baby food ensures the best foods for your baby, and Wean Cubes ensure that these foods stay pure and fresh.
Soooooo if you want this product for FREE...leave me a comment below, follow me on blogger (this site) or join my facebook page Outnumbered Momma Blog Fan Page for a chance to WIN!
If you comment & join the fb page and become a follower; you get THREE entries to win. (The follow link is on the right side of the screen)
You can send me a message and let me know you've joined the facebook fan page.
Later next week I will give away my FREE samples of the Wean Green product to one lucky momma!
I am ALL for using glassware for food storage and freezing - the amount of chemicals, such as BPA that are actually found in our bodies is a little frightening.
These products were designed by a mom of 2; and I was so pleased to see the sample arrive in my mail.
A little about Melissa, the awesome mompreneur: Wean Green was founded in 2008 by Melissa Gunning, the proud mom of two little weaners, Rayne and Talia. Melissa has combined her passion for healthy living and happy babies, and channeled it into Wean Green. Her creativity and enthusiasm radiate through every aspect of the business, and she is proud to be the hard-working mom behind Wean Green.
The products are great! I love the vibrant colour, easy snap on/off lids, and they are GLASS which is great (I am ANTI-plastic, I must confess!!) They can be used for other food products as well (think smarties, goldfish, Cheerios!) I'm hoping to interview Melissa in the near future - for the readers out there who are interested in starting their own business - I know I'm interested in hearing how she got started and would love to hear her advice for women and moms in business.
Here's the scoop: (For more visit Wean Green here)
Wean Cubes are a perfect addition to your kitchen when starting your baby on solid foods. Homemade baby food ensures the best foods for your baby, and Wean Cubes ensure that these foods stay pure and fresh.
4 x 120 mL (4 fluid ounces)
30 mL, 60 mL and 90 mL measuring lines
Available in packs of four
Great things to know!
Made of durable glass with a silicone-sealed lid
Safe & environmentally friendly
BPA, PVC, Phthalates, and Plasticizer free
Glass is 100% recyclable and sustainable
Smart Clips lock and secure food inside
Measuring lines help you monitor food intake
Stands up to the extreme temperatures required to make, store, freeze, heat, and serve baby food
Four fabulous colors: Raspberry, Blueberry, Peas, and Carrots
Soooooo if you want this product for FREE...leave me a comment below, follow me on blogger (this site) or join my facebook page Outnumbered Momma Blog Fan Page for a chance to WIN!
If you comment & join the fb page and become a follower; you get THREE entries to win. (The follow link is on the right side of the screen)
You can send me a message and let me know you've joined the facebook fan page.
Later next week I will give away my FREE samples of the Wean Green product to one lucky momma!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
Parenting 101
You may have read my previous post last year on the idea that it "takes a village to raise a child"... the truth is, sometimes we need a little help and feedback while doing the tough and rewarding job of being a parent.
If you're anything like me, you sometimes wonder how your parenting skills are. Or, maybe somedays, they're great, and other days you know they're not quite up to "gold" standard.
For our family, we have some interesting "dynamics" in our home with a 2 year old, 4 year old, and 9 year old in the mix. There is sibling rivalry, a big age gap, a small age gap, and of course trying to balance time between all the kids. How do people with more than 3 kids do it?!?
Over time, people can form bad habits...and I think as parents we can do the same. Sometimes it gets to be the same old, same old, trying to "discipline" them the "right" way, sometimes without making positive changes to achieve this. In my life, I find I'm generally trying to keep the peace and keep everyone happy... and I don't always give a lot of attention to the way I'm working through everyday issues.
Recently, my hubby & I noticed what we were doing wasn't always working...so I first signed up for the Ontario Early Years Newsletter via email, and started to receive information about parenting classes.
I signed us up for the COPE (Community Parent Education Program) through our local Ontario Early Years Centre - it's a 10 week program for parents of kids ages 3-12. Perfect for us! Lucky for me, my hubby is a good sport and is joining me. (Okay, whatever - I pretty much signed us up and said, "Guess what you're doing honey?")
We've attended 2 weeks so far -- and honestly I feel like we've already walked away with some great tools for problem solving, resolving conflicts and generally building healthy relations with our kids. I'm so excited about it, I felt it necessary to devote an entire post to this topic!
I won't discuss everything in the course, but there are a few things that have really worked for us.
Positive reinforcement. Simple. Easy. Tell your kids they're doing a great job at something when they're doing it. It's amazing the rewards that come from that simple action. They start to WANT to be better behaved because they just eat up the praise!! We have a tick sheet from the program that we as parents can check off when we really pay attention and praise our children...
Ignoring behaviours. There are certain things that we can let go. For example, we discovered that the big "SIGHS" that my oldest lets out when he's frustrated...let it go!! Ignore it. Doesn't get much easier than that! You're pretty much doing nothing. It's sort of like I've always said..."Pick your battles".
So what happens when the sighs turn into "that sucks" or "I don't care" or worse? Well, we are going to work on that this week. It's problem solving.
We are going to discuss it with him, and make a plan for alternative words or phrases to use. It will give him time to vent his frustrations as well (such as, my little brothers play with ALL my toys all the time!!). We are hoping to come up with a plan for appropriate language, and also what he needs from us as a family to make him happy too. I have a feeling some "alone" time for my oldest will be in the cards... It's a win win situation.
So, those are a few of the highlights of our class so far. I'm looking forward to the next 8 classes...it's fun, it's open conversation and the facilitators do a great job of ensuring everyone in the group is able to participate.
: )
Peace & love,
Keri
If you're anything like me, you sometimes wonder how your parenting skills are. Or, maybe somedays, they're great, and other days you know they're not quite up to "gold" standard.
For our family, we have some interesting "dynamics" in our home with a 2 year old, 4 year old, and 9 year old in the mix. There is sibling rivalry, a big age gap, a small age gap, and of course trying to balance time between all the kids. How do people with more than 3 kids do it?!?
Over time, people can form bad habits...and I think as parents we can do the same. Sometimes it gets to be the same old, same old, trying to "discipline" them the "right" way, sometimes without making positive changes to achieve this. In my life, I find I'm generally trying to keep the peace and keep everyone happy... and I don't always give a lot of attention to the way I'm working through everyday issues.
Recently, my hubby & I noticed what we were doing wasn't always working...so I first signed up for the Ontario Early Years Newsletter via email, and started to receive information about parenting classes.
I signed us up for the COPE (Community Parent Education Program) through our local Ontario Early Years Centre - it's a 10 week program for parents of kids ages 3-12. Perfect for us! Lucky for me, my hubby is a good sport and is joining me. (Okay, whatever - I pretty much signed us up and said, "Guess what you're doing honey?")
We've attended 2 weeks so far -- and honestly I feel like we've already walked away with some great tools for problem solving, resolving conflicts and generally building healthy relations with our kids. I'm so excited about it, I felt it necessary to devote an entire post to this topic!
I won't discuss everything in the course, but there are a few things that have really worked for us.
Positive reinforcement. Simple. Easy. Tell your kids they're doing a great job at something when they're doing it. It's amazing the rewards that come from that simple action. They start to WANT to be better behaved because they just eat up the praise!! We have a tick sheet from the program that we as parents can check off when we really pay attention and praise our children...
Ignoring behaviours. There are certain things that we can let go. For example, we discovered that the big "SIGHS" that my oldest lets out when he's frustrated...let it go!! Ignore it. Doesn't get much easier than that! You're pretty much doing nothing. It's sort of like I've always said..."Pick your battles".
So what happens when the sighs turn into "that sucks" or "I don't care" or worse? Well, we are going to work on that this week. It's problem solving.
We are going to discuss it with him, and make a plan for alternative words or phrases to use. It will give him time to vent his frustrations as well (such as, my little brothers play with ALL my toys all the time!!). We are hoping to come up with a plan for appropriate language, and also what he needs from us as a family to make him happy too. I have a feeling some "alone" time for my oldest will be in the cards... It's a win win situation.
So, those are a few of the highlights of our class so far. I'm looking forward to the next 8 classes...it's fun, it's open conversation and the facilitators do a great job of ensuring everyone in the group is able to participate.
If you're interested, check out your local Ontario Early Years Centre - they have wonderful playgroups for ages 0-6 years, as well as a variety of workshops and courses for kids and their parents. The course we are taking has free childcare, and they even feed the kids a healthy snack while we're there.
It doesn't matter who you are, where you come from, how many kids you have, where you work...when you walk in the door, they are there to support people to become better parents and stronger families.
It doesn't matter who you are, where you come from, how many kids you have, where you work...when you walk in the door, they are there to support people to become better parents and stronger families.
The feedback and positive environment really makes me think of one of my favourite sayings, "It takes a village to raise a child"
Peace & love,
Keri
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Update!!!
Yesssss, I probably could've come up with a more exciting title than that -- however, I am so excited to start typing again that I'm just gonna go with "Update!!!!"
This is my "new" blog site - and once I figure out how to move my previous url of http://www.outnumberedmomma.com/ to this site, I will let you know. Ummmmm, I'll give you a heads up though, it may be a while. Having your own website name is cheap (10 bucks a year), but very confusing! I am hoping to move my old typepad blog posts over to this new blogger site soon too. Ummmmm, I'll give you a heads up, it may be a while. Exporting blog posts is great, but once again, very confusing : )
So where to begin...
My last blog post was from October 10, 2010 and it was when I came the realization that life without a nanny, doing full-time Masters, working and looking after a home wasa wee bit insanely stressful and I was in over my head. (Looking back I can honestly say WHAT was I thinking?!? I had no childcare and had 40 hours of schoolwork to do. Wasn't anyone reading my blog, you should've stopped me! Just jokin', I would not have listened!)
Finally, Irealized admitted that I needed some help with the kids. I had decided to put Spencer (I don't use the kids real names) into daycare the same days that Ollie was in Kindergarten. It was good...for about 2 days. Then everyone came home from school or daycare sick and couldn't return to school or daycare. Luckily Jake was all good in school as he has built up a lovely and healthy immune system!
So needless to say, I would then be home with sick kids, trying to listen to my lectures via videoconference, and then trying to do schoolwork afterwards.
Fast forward several very stressed out weeks, and we decided to hire another nanny.
Well, that didn't work out either. She quit before she even started. The kids had met her and we had submitted all of her paperwork & signed a contract. She backed out & essentially left us with NO childcare. Lovely!! More stress! It was actually really terrible what she did, but I'm not going to discuss the details here. I have forgiven her, made peace & have moved on...
So, maybe you're wondering what I did without a nanny or daycare and my teaching job and full-time school....this is the exciting part....
I am STAYING home with the kids!! I'm home with them except for one day each week that I teach nursing students in the clinical setting. I have dropped down to part-time school and I'm really enjoying it.
It took me a while to get here (four months to be exact)...and I truly believe that everything happened for a reason.
I was super stressed, missing my kids and generally was not enjoying life with all my responsibilities and commitments. I knew in my heart that I was wearing myself too thin.
But it's hard to give up, to feel like a failure, to have a plan that didn't work out exactly as expected.
I'm trying really hard to not beat myself up over it...people make mistakes - and doing my masters full-time now certainly seems like a mistake. But I have learned from it...learned to slow down, enjoy life, and most importantly I've learned that these years with my kids being so little are flying by.
I am loving every minute...and in the end - I still have an LOA from my job that I love, and I will go back to work in the spring (oooh but part time maybe?)
I'm now thankful that everything didn't work out exactly as planned, with a new nanny and full-time school, otherwise I'd still be working, studying and stressing and working even more. They say God works in mysterious ways...but there wasn't much mystery about this - this is what I needed and what my heart wanted.
For so long, I was fighting it. I felt like I'd done my RN diploma, then my degree, obtained my IBCLC in the summer, and the masters was the next logical step.
Well, I say screw you logic! I have learned to listen to my heart ...
And I'm so thankful everything has worked out...my heart is happy.
Now, my days consist of playgroups and chauffeuring the kids to school, skating and hockey. Sometimes the referreeing of wrestling matches gets to me (but really, what mom doesn't it get to on somedays?) I do occasional readings about statistical analysis in nursing...but most of the time, I'm meal-planning, grocery shopping, planning crafts, activities, playdates and FUN.
I'm with my kids more...and when I'm with them, I'm really with them, rather than thinking about my next paper, or my next reading to complete. I am learning so much about slowing down...taking deep breaths, and also about how to better deal with stress.
I'm going to yoga again, I am exercising again... I'm living in the moment a whole lot more now.
I'm so happy to be blogging again....nothin' like this kind of free therapy to make my heart even happier : )
I hope this post finds your heart happy too!
This is my "new" blog site - and once I figure out how to move my previous url of http://www.outnumberedmomma.com/ to this site, I will let you know. Ummmmm, I'll give you a heads up though, it may be a while. Having your own website name is cheap (10 bucks a year), but very confusing! I am hoping to move my old typepad blog posts over to this new blogger site soon too. Ummmmm, I'll give you a heads up, it may be a while. Exporting blog posts is great, but once again, very confusing : )
So where to begin...
My last blog post was from October 10, 2010 and it was when I came the realization that life without a nanny, doing full-time Masters, working and looking after a home was
Finally, I
So needless to say, I would then be home with sick kids, trying to listen to my lectures via videoconference, and then trying to do schoolwork afterwards.
Fast forward several very stressed out weeks, and we decided to hire another nanny.
Well, that didn't work out either. She quit before she even started. The kids had met her and we had submitted all of her paperwork & signed a contract. She backed out & essentially left us with NO childcare. Lovely!! More stress! It was actually really terrible what she did, but I'm not going to discuss the details here. I have forgiven her, made peace & have moved on...
So, maybe you're wondering what I did without a nanny or daycare and my teaching job and full-time school....this is the exciting part....
I am STAYING home with the kids!! I'm home with them except for one day each week that I teach nursing students in the clinical setting. I have dropped down to part-time school and I'm really enjoying it.
It took me a while to get here (four months to be exact)...and I truly believe that everything happened for a reason.
I was super stressed, missing my kids and generally was not enjoying life with all my responsibilities and commitments. I knew in my heart that I was wearing myself too thin.
But it's hard to give up, to feel like a failure, to have a plan that didn't work out exactly as expected.
I'm trying really hard to not beat myself up over it...people make mistakes - and doing my masters full-time now certainly seems like a mistake. But I have learned from it...learned to slow down, enjoy life, and most importantly I've learned that these years with my kids being so little are flying by.
I am loving every minute...and in the end - I still have an LOA from my job that I love, and I will go back to work in the spring (oooh but part time maybe?)
I'm now thankful that everything didn't work out exactly as planned, with a new nanny and full-time school, otherwise I'd still be working, studying and stressing and working even more. They say God works in mysterious ways...but there wasn't much mystery about this - this is what I needed and what my heart wanted.
For so long, I was fighting it. I felt like I'd done my RN diploma, then my degree, obtained my IBCLC in the summer, and the masters was the next logical step.
Well, I say screw you logic! I have learned to listen to my heart ...
And I'm so thankful everything has worked out...my heart is happy.
Now, my days consist of playgroups and chauffeuring the kids to school, skating and hockey. Sometimes the referreeing of wrestling matches gets to me (but really, what mom doesn't it get to on somedays?) I do occasional readings about statistical analysis in nursing...but most of the time, I'm meal-planning, grocery shopping, planning crafts, activities, playdates and FUN.
I'm with my kids more...and when I'm with them, I'm really with them, rather than thinking about my next paper, or my next reading to complete. I am learning so much about slowing down...taking deep breaths, and also about how to better deal with stress.
I'm going to yoga again, I am exercising again... I'm living in the moment a whole lot more now.
I'm so happy to be blogging again....nothin' like this kind of free therapy to make my heart even happier : )
I hope this post finds your heart happy too!
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Boys just want to have fun
I've come to a conclusion:
My boys make me so much more fun than I would ever be without them.
I had started co-coaching soccer with Brian a little earlier in the summer.
My true friends are chuckling, for they know that my athletic prowess is...despicable....less than desirable to put it nicely. I'm a little lanky, uncoordinated and have never really been one for organized sports.
However, as with bug hunting, frog catching, fishing, playing soccer baseball and other boy-ish type activities, I am now somewhat becoming an expert. I did even did some research on the game of soccer...how to be a good coach with age appropriate games, and training. Trains, hot wheels, trucks, NASCAR....you name it. I love it. I'm also getting to be an expert Lego builder. Star Wars, here I come!
I was talking with my brother one day and said, yeah it's pretty cool what having these boys has made me do and try.
Crazy rides at the amusement park, insane water slides that I probably would never have normally even considered trying. But I couldn't say NO to my oldest sons pleas - PLEASE mom, you gotta try it with me! Of course I tried it with him.
The other day when we were out on the lake fishing at the cottage, I felt a taptaptap on my shoulder....I turned around and saw half of our bait (WORMS!) sitting on my shoulder. My little guy was grinning ear to ear as I picked up the worms and brushed the dirt from my shoulder. "Ewwwww" I squealed, much to his delight. I think he figures this is all part of the desensitization process for his very girly mother.
After further discussion with my brother, it was discussed that this is just par for the course with boys.... As in, do you think you'd be doing all these things if you had sweater wearing Jack Russells instead of sons?
Of course the answer is NO. My boys make me a better person, bottom line.
The best part of it is, I'm so thankful for them because they've made me a better mom.
: ) Keri
My boys make me so much more fun than I would ever be without them.
I had started co-coaching soccer with Brian a little earlier in the summer.
My true friends are chuckling, for they know that my athletic prowess is...
However, as with bug hunting, frog catching, fishing, playing soccer baseball and other boy-ish type activities, I am now somewhat becoming an expert. I did even did some research on the game of soccer...how to be a good coach with age appropriate games, and training. Trains, hot wheels, trucks, NASCAR....you name it. I love it. I'm also getting to be an expert Lego builder. Star Wars, here I come!
I was talking with my brother one day and said, yeah it's pretty cool what having these boys has made me do and try.
Crazy rides at the amusement park, insane water slides that I probably would never have normally even considered trying. But I couldn't say NO to my oldest sons pleas - PLEASE mom, you gotta try it with me! Of course I tried it with him.
The other day when we were out on the lake fishing at the cottage, I felt a taptaptap on my shoulder....I turned around and saw half of our bait (WORMS!) sitting on my shoulder. My little guy was grinning ear to ear as I picked up the worms and brushed the dirt from my shoulder. "Ewwwww" I squealed, much to his delight. I think he figures this is all part of the desensitization process for his very girly mother.
After further discussion with my brother, it was discussed that this is just par for the course with boys.... As in, do you think you'd be doing all these things if you had sweater wearing Jack Russells instead of sons?
Of course the answer is NO. My boys make me a better person, bottom line.
I realize that kids, no matter their gender, will change your life. Lately, since we've been discussing the "no more babies" as a final decision, I have those moments when I'm admiring the dressed-in-pink-frilly-hair-in-pig-tails girls in the grocery line-up and wistfully daydream about what life would be like with a daughter. I then, of course think of my sons, what they've taught me & always quickly remember how blessed I am to have three wonderful boys.
The best part of it is, I'm so thankful for them because they've made me a better mom.I've had some great experiences and tried things I never would have tried without them....they've taught me a lot about being a well-rounded mom...and I'm now a more well-rounded worm-touchin' girl too.
: ) Keri
Monday, June 21, 2010
Guest blogger has arrived at Outnumbered!
I have written about my friend Sarah in the past...she's one of those mommas that other mommas wanna be like.
Anyway, I'll cut to the chase - Sarah is super witty and I have often told her she should get off facebook for a few seconds and try blogging instead (haha Sarah!!) But seriously - I am honoured and grateful that she took time to write a post on my blog...I love this post, love this girl and I hope she'll come back again soon...enjoy!
Hi Gang!
I’m Sarah. I have 2 little guys. One mini man is 2.5 and our little dude is 12 months! Looking forward to more. Why the hell not! Huge props to Mama K for asking me to guest blog. I’m flattered…..and tired. Please forgive me if this is a serious entry. I just made my return back to work from mat leave….so I am still getting my bearings as a working mama of 2! Here are my thoughts:
I will blog about the one thing that we ALL think about every day. The driving force behind most of our decisions….the constant thorn in our side. $$$$ Moneeeeey. Cash. The buckaroonies rule our lives. But I have recently come to a fork in the coin paved road. See….we live in this day and age of MORE. BIGGER. FASTER and NOW. But I give up. I asked myself why….why do we chase more when all we need ….we already have. Will a bigger house make us happier, or advance our kids capacity to be successful? Will a newer car make me sleep better at night? Will signing my kids up to 5 activities a season make them achieve more success down the road? Should I continue to work full time in constant pursuit of more $$$$$$$.
Well…Mama Shoe has reached a personal decision. I finally saw my light. I came to this place of contentment using my memories. Ya I got all deep and stuff, all by myself one afternoon…..in a quiet room….and I took myself back to being a child. I searched the archives of my mind for a memory that brought me pure childhood joy. There weren’t many. My family was also living the cha-ching life style. Huge house….amazing trips around the world……best of everything. In the middle of our high falutin fancy pants lives, there were good times. Warm memories. Those moments did not involve anything material. When I think of what made me feel loved and secure….I think of one on one time. Trips as a family to the beach. Just us and the beach. Laughs, food, games, and just TIME. Together. And guess what. The beach is free. Those days we had as a family with nothing to distract us…are likely the most precious memories I have of my childhood. I will not let myself get distracted by the pursuit of more. I will not keep my kids busy all the time by carting them from this game to that class. I will let kids be kids and play. I vow to give them my time. Just us and them. So now as I try to implement my new found wisdom…..I am also touched by reality.
Of course we need money. And we want to give our kids the best in life. Family vacations…..team sports. All that jazz-o-roonie. I’m not planning on taking that away. I’m planning a combo attack on this issue. Moderation. Make a bit of cash…perhaps work part time. But give the best of me and the most of my time to my children. Period. I am confident that they will look back on their childhoods and remember US. TOGETHER. Spending time, without distractions. I want more of them…..I value that now more anything.
So Mama Shoe wasn’t’ so crazy side splitting funny in her guest bliz-og entry. Sometimes ya can’t be dropping killer jokes…if your heart is feeling heavy with major decisions ahead. Looks like I have made mine. I am done asking myself questions. I know my answers. It is a personal choice for all of us. If you go with your heart and ask your head to take a back seat for a while…..you will likely be on YOUR right path.
Life…..it’s all about ups and downs, accomplishments and set backs. Bad hair days followed by “dang….I’m look’n HAWT for a mama” days. Can’t predict tomorrow…can only do our best today.
Perhaps I can request that outnumbered mama allow me another opportunity to guest blog. Next time I will be light hearted…..crack a few zingers and have a little fun. Had to stay true to my “sitch” this time guys….just keeping it real.
~Mama Shoe is out~
xoxo
Anyway, I'll cut to the chase - Sarah is super witty and I have often told her she should get off facebook for a few seconds and try blogging instead (haha Sarah!!) But seriously - I am honoured and grateful that she took time to write a post on my blog...I love this post, love this girl and I hope she'll come back again soon...enjoy!
Hi Gang!
I’m Sarah. I have 2 little guys. One mini man is 2.5 and our little dude is 12 months! Looking forward to more. Why the hell not! Huge props to Mama K for asking me to guest blog. I’m flattered…..and tired. Please forgive me if this is a serious entry. I just made my return back to work from mat leave….so I am still getting my bearings as a working mama of 2! Here are my thoughts:
I will blog about the one thing that we ALL think about every day. The driving force behind most of our decisions….the constant thorn in our side. $$$$ Moneeeeey. Cash. The buckaroonies rule our lives. But I have recently come to a fork in the coin paved road. See….we live in this day and age of MORE. BIGGER. FASTER and NOW. But I give up. I asked myself why….why do we chase more when all we need ….we already have. Will a bigger house make us happier, or advance our kids capacity to be successful? Will a newer car make me sleep better at night? Will signing my kids up to 5 activities a season make them achieve more success down the road? Should I continue to work full time in constant pursuit of more $$$$$$$.
Well…Mama Shoe has reached a personal decision. I finally saw my light. I came to this place of contentment using my memories. Ya I got all deep and stuff, all by myself one afternoon…..in a quiet room….and I took myself back to being a child. I searched the archives of my mind for a memory that brought me pure childhood joy. There weren’t many. My family was also living the cha-ching life style. Huge house….amazing trips around the world……best of everything. In the middle of our high falutin fancy pants lives, there were good times. Warm memories. Those moments did not involve anything material. When I think of what made me feel loved and secure….I think of one on one time. Trips as a family to the beach. Just us and the beach. Laughs, food, games, and just TIME. Together. And guess what. The beach is free. Those days we had as a family with nothing to distract us…are likely the most precious memories I have of my childhood. I will not let myself get distracted by the pursuit of more. I will not keep my kids busy all the time by carting them from this game to that class. I will let kids be kids and play. I vow to give them my time. Just us and them. So now as I try to implement my new found wisdom…..I am also touched by reality.
Of course we need money. And we want to give our kids the best in life. Family vacations…..team sports. All that jazz-o-roonie. I’m not planning on taking that away. I’m planning a combo attack on this issue. Moderation. Make a bit of cash…perhaps work part time. But give the best of me and the most of my time to my children. Period. I am confident that they will look back on their childhoods and remember US. TOGETHER. Spending time, without distractions. I want more of them…..I value that now more anything.
So Mama Shoe wasn’t’ so crazy side splitting funny in her guest bliz-og entry. Sometimes ya can’t be dropping killer jokes…if your heart is feeling heavy with major decisions ahead. Looks like I have made mine. I am done asking myself questions. I know my answers. It is a personal choice for all of us. If you go with your heart and ask your head to take a back seat for a while…..you will likely be on YOUR right path.
Life…..it’s all about ups and downs, accomplishments and set backs. Bad hair days followed by “dang….I’m look’n HAWT for a mama” days. Can’t predict tomorrow…can only do our best today.
Perhaps I can request that outnumbered mama allow me another opportunity to guest blog. Next time I will be light hearted…..crack a few zingers and have a little fun. Had to stay true to my “sitch” this time guys….just keeping it real.
~Mama Shoe is out~
xoxo
Monday, March 1, 2010
It takes a village to raise a child
As I sat down to type tonight...I thought my brain was just too tired to write anything intelligibly.
But my thoughts were quickly inspired by some of my dear friends' facebook statuses.
Many were venting about the perils of mommyhood. They were tired, they were stressed, they were worried about getting through bathtime and bedtime without their husbands with their one, two or three kids.
This was not just ONE status I read, but multiple updates echoed the same type of messages.
I thought about it for a while and I wondered a few things - do we have unreal expectations of what motherhood is supposed to be?
Are we kidding ourselves when we think that we will be rested? Do we really believe we'll be fulfilled in every moment? Do people really think it's easy?
Of course it's not.
Any person with a child knows that raising children is nothing but easy.
Then it dawned on me -- these statuses that I read were actually positive.
These moms likely did not have unreal expectations; quite the opposite actually.
They fully realize their struggles and I can only hope in that moment they realized they were not and ARE not alone. Furthermore, these moms were brave and honest enough to speak their truths, and by doing so they (likely unknowingly) reached out to other moms.
I found it somewhat empowering - how many times is a picture of perfection painted of a year off work for maternity leave? How many times do people lie about what really happens behind closed doors? How does the idealization of the "perfect" life really help anyone in the end?
These facebook updates, even though they're on a social network are conveying very important messages. First, rarely is there anything in parenting or mothering that is easy. Next, it's okay to be honest about what motherhood is really about. Finally, the most important message to me is it's okay to ask for help.
It takes a village to raise a child! This African proverb teaches us something invaluable. No mom, dad or family is an island. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, it's okay to feel stressed, it's okay to have a little cry on your way into work because leaving your kids to work full-time is the hardest decision you make every day.
Admitting there are imperfections, and admitting you need help is a noble step, asking for it is the most intelligent and important.
I love this proverb and it reiterates the wonderful idea of moms and dads, families and communities joining together to help one another raise the healthiest and secure little people we possible can. In the meantime, it sure helps moms & dads understand they're NOT alone.
But my thoughts were quickly inspired by some of my dear friends' facebook statuses.
Many were venting about the perils of mommyhood. They were tired, they were stressed, they were worried about getting through bathtime and bedtime without their husbands with their one, two or three kids.
This was not just ONE status I read, but multiple updates echoed the same type of messages.
I thought about it for a while and I wondered a few things - do we have unreal expectations of what motherhood is supposed to be?
Are we kidding ourselves when we think that we will be rested? Do we really believe we'll be fulfilled in every moment? Do people really think it's easy?
Of course it's not.
Any person with a child knows that raising children is nothing but easy.
Then it dawned on me -- these statuses that I read were actually positive.
These moms likely did not have unreal expectations; quite the opposite actually.
They fully realize their struggles and I can only hope in that moment they realized they were not and ARE not alone. Furthermore, these moms were brave and honest enough to speak their truths, and by doing so they (likely unknowingly) reached out to other moms.
I found it somewhat empowering - how many times is a picture of perfection painted of a year off work for maternity leave? How many times do people lie about what really happens behind closed doors? How does the idealization of the "perfect" life really help anyone in the end?
These facebook updates, even though they're on a social network are conveying very important messages. First, rarely is there anything in parenting or mothering that is easy. Next, it's okay to be honest about what motherhood is really about. Finally, the most important message to me is it's okay to ask for help.
It takes a village to raise a child! This African proverb teaches us something invaluable. No mom, dad or family is an island. It's okay to feel overwhelmed, it's okay to feel stressed, it's okay to have a little cry on your way into work because leaving your kids to work full-time is the hardest decision you make every day.
Admitting there are imperfections, and admitting you need help is a noble step, asking for it is the most intelligent and important.
I love this proverb and it reiterates the wonderful idea of moms and dads, families and communities joining together to help one another raise the healthiest and secure little people we possible can. In the meantime, it sure helps moms & dads understand they're NOT alone.
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