Yesterday is gone, tomorrow is not here yet, so I will live in the present.
This is a new year and a fresh start with a chance to strive for something greater for my family and I. I don't know what the new year will bring nor do I have any sort of resolution, however, I am optimistic about this new year. I am going to try my best just to live be present. I won't rush ahead or live in the past, I will just simply take the moment as it comes. Here is to wishing you a healthy and happy 2022.
We did it!!!
We finished yet a second year of this pandemic. I am thankful that we made it through, all the ups and downs of the year. Parents pat yourselves on the back because it is not easy to navigate in normal circumstances, but to be pushing forward during this pandemic is a blessing. Best wishes to you for the upcoming year. May 2022 bring forth peace, love and more awesome memories with your children.
 |
| WELCOME 2022!!!! |
All of us have boundaries, at least most of us do. Creating boundaries is a way of practicing self care and creating a safe space and protecting one's peace. Protecting my peace is important to me, there is a lot going on in the world and there is so many things and people demanding my attention. This is why it's imperative to have boundaries in place.
When it comes to my children they are no different, they too need healthy boundaries, in this digital age. Especially during the teenage years, it's hard to keep up with teenagers. However, technology is not the only thing that needs to be addressed when it comes to boundaries. There is a whole host of things and situations that calls for boundaries to be set in place. Also, as a parent I am mindful that I too must respect my children's boundaries such as their privacy. This may mean not posting certain things on social media or listening to what they want instead of running away with my plans for them.
I had to face this very thing in planning my daughter's 16th birthday party, I wanted to make a big deal out out of her 16th birthday, but she wanted a small gathering to celebrate her special day. I knew that doing things my way would make her unhappy, and that is the last thing that I wanted to happen. In the end, I respected her and gave her what she needed and wanted. Boundaries goes both ways, and we all deserve to have our boundaries respected. Lastly, we are all learning, growing and evolving and so being kind and patient with each other could go a long way.
 |
| Your Concerns Are Important To Me. |
Moms,
I don"t know about you, but I sometimes undervalue what I bring to the table. In the midst of all the challenges, twists and turns of motherhood, sometimes, I forget about how valuable I am. It's easy to see what we aren't doing, and glance over the great things that we do. Sometimes, we have to clap for our selves and remind ourselves that we are doing our best. Our families depend on us and they love even when we don't hear them say it. The most important thing, is that we as moms know our worth. We will reap the benefits of our hard work if we persevere.
When those negative thoughts try to creep in, I will remember that I am valuable member of my family. Clap for yourself once in a while!
It has been busy, busy, busy around here.
I have been running around non stop these last few months. I am a working mom now and I have a high school senior. I sure that I don't have to tell you how nerve wrecking that is. I am trying to make sure he get's everything for college and keeping up with all the senior activities at the same time. It is a happy time, but also I feel like I am sitting on pins and needles. I know that in the end everything will be alright, we have to all do our part to get things moving along. Not to mention, I have another child who is in her sophomore year of high school, which feels like her freshman year because it's her first time in the building. I know that many of you are going through similar circumstances. Let us not get overwhelmed, because these are blessings. The fact that our families are progressing shows how blessed we are. Soon we will reap the benefits of our hard work as a family.
Growing up, it was "normal" for children to be seen and not heard, and a child should stay in a child's place. Let's tackle that subject. I do agree that a child should be respectful, and be privy to only child appropriate situations. When it comes to the notion that a child should not be heard, that is where I disagree. Everyone has thoughts, feelings and emotions, and should have a safe space to express those concerns. Children are little humans that are going through their own experiences in this world, making them feel less than does not help them in the long run.
That leads me to this point,
parents are not always right, simply put. The lines between parent and child is sometimes blurred and confusing. I can relate to this, nothing is ever smooth sailing when raising children. Whether you have one child or many, there are heck ups along the way. There are so many thoughts and feeling involved in a family dynamic, it's sometimes a challenge to see with sober eyes. With that being said, there are moments that I have to reflect and circle back to apologize to my children.
Having the wisdom to realize that I am wrong and then having the courage to apologize is a big step. I want to create a atmosphere that my children feel safe and valued. I am not right all the time just because I am the parent, and my parental authority does not make me less accountable for my actions. I am a mom that apologizes when I am wrong. I am not a perfect mom, but I am a good mom because I know when to admit that I am wrong. What are your thoughts about this topic? Do you apologize to your children? Feel free to comment, and let me know your thoughts.
Yes, Mommies!
I have been way too hard on myself in the role mom. I am done beating up on myself because honestly it makes the journey much more difficult than it needs to be. Life gets hard, but I am doing the best that I can and that is all that I can do. I know in my heart that I am doing the best that I can and that is all that I can do. I am learning that I cannot solve every problem and I don't have all the answers. I can do what I can and ask for help with other things and somethings will have to work themselves out. I stand in the power of being alright with not having it all figure out.
Lately, I can't help but feel like I am old because time is just flying by so fast. As I watch my children grow and accomplish so many milestones it feels surreal. My first born will be 18 years old soon and my second child will be 16 years old. I can't help but to think how fast the years are going by. I feel like my life is flashing before my eyes. On the other hand I can't help but to feel proud, one decision after another for the last 18 years has brought me to this place. That is something to be proud of.
Life is far from perfect but it is a blessing. My children are a blessing to my life, I Have grown as a person because of them. Through the many twists and turns of life, I have gained so much from the experience of being a mom. I have learned from the difficult times and I am better because of it. I will continue to learn as my children transition into adulthood. As time progress I appreciate everything both the difficult and the good situations. All of this has brought me to this place that I am in my life. The place that I am in is a state of reflective joy. I feel joy when I think about my journey as a mother. This joy that I feel is the sum total of laughter, tears, prayers and smiles. Time does not stand still, but I am soak in every moment.
Yes,
For most of us it has been a year and a half that our children have been attending virtual school. I never thought that virtual learning would last this long. On the flip side of the coin, I never thought that my children would have to return to school masked up and with hand sanitizer. This is a new world that we are living in, and it feels unreal.
Additionally, We are all adjusting to our new normal. Besides the masks and hand sanitizers, our children are readjusting to being in the school building and parents are readjusting to drop offs and pick ups. I must admit that I got kind off spoiled, not having to do drop offs and pick ups free up a lot of time. I enjoyed not sitting in the school traffic, although it came at a cost. My children are over virtual learning and are looking forward to in person learning. That makes it worthwhile for me.
I find that I am dragging myself in the morning to do drop offs, I am extremely rusty at it. What a difference a year make. Can anyone relate to this? Nevertheless, I have to get back on the saddle and get back to my regular routine.
Hi mommies,
The time is now!
I have been putting off some very important things that I want to do for myself. I have been putting it off because it never seemed like a good time. I have been using my kids as a excuse not to care for myself, yes, motherhood is hard and it keeps me busy. However, if I am being honest, it's very easy to use my kids an excuse for not finding time to take care of my needs. I have allowed a lot of things to fall by the wayside Some that have affected my health and well being.
The time is now for me to get back on track and be accountable for my choices. Today, I choose to work on my goals without excuses. I may not get it right the first of second time, but I will promise to pick myself up and keep going.
Is there something that you have been putting off, if so, I hope that you too make time to be kind to yourself. Best wishes!
I can't believe that summer is almost over!!!😢😢😢
I am not ready for back packs and lunch boxes, I want summer to last a little longer. Moms, enjoy the last weeks of summer and relish in it, before you know it school will be back in session. Make every moment count. Where did the time go, I have no idea how the time went by so fast. The store are already stocked with school supplies and school uniforms. Some kids are virtual learning while others will be back in the building. For the student that are going back into the building it's going to be a new adjustment with Covid procedures in effect. For others who are virtual learning that will also be an adjustment. Either way school will be in full swing and our kids will be navigating through a new grade with new teachers.
I am bracing myself, saying a little prayer and hoping for the best as we are transitioning from summer break into the school year. Hang in there mommies!
I am 42 years old and I still run into people that ask me that question. Why do people ask this question and why do they think that it's appropriate to ask that question. I have two children who are now teenagers and I am happy and fulfilled with my two children. I have no desire to have more children, I don't believe it's the number of children that I have that matters, but it's the quality of life that I can give to my children that matter. It's up to everyone to decide what's best for themselves. We are all different, some individuals may desire to have a big family and that is all good. However, some of us are content with the number of children that we have already.
I wish people would resist the urge to put time limits and expectations on others. As long as a couple is in agreement with their family planning, no one else should have a say otherwise. There is enough pressure in life and it doesn't help when people are constantly forcing their thoughts and opinions in the mix. I know my life better than anyone else, I know what is best for me. In all of my years I have never thought to ask anyone that question, because frankly it's none of my business. Family planning is personal and private and it should remain that way, unless an individual wants to volunteer that information. This is my take on the subject.
Have you ever been asked this question? If so, what do you think about it? Let's discuss it in the comment section.
I have been in a parent support group for teenagers and also a mom support group. I am finding it helpful, because the road of parenthood can sometimes feel lonely. A support group helps me to know that I am not alone. There is always someone that can relate to what I am going through. It's funny how we all think that we are alone when we are facing difficulties, then suddenly we realize that there are others going through the same thing. I have also have the pleasure of attending mental health support groups and the common thread is that, there is always someone who is going through the same things. There is comfort in knowing that I am not alone, and when I see others overcome their obstacles it gives me hope. We can be inspired by each others journey and exchange ideas, these are the reasons that I like support groups.
However, I tread lightly in these groups. I want to also make sure that I am not giving away too much information, and I am being respectful of my children. Although, these groups are private, in the virtual world it's hard to be totally open. There are thousands of people in these group that I don't know and so I am cautious. Meeting in person is more private and personal, but in the world of Covid-19 I will have to wait for in person meetings to resume. Overall, support groups have been very inspiring and helpful to me. What do you think about parent support groups?
I hope that I am getting this parenting thing right.I am constantly asking myself if I am giving too much or too little to my children. I torture myself daily with these questions. Most of the time things never seem to go as planned, in parenting there are lots of surprises along the way. Surprises is an understatement, that's for sure. Most of the time I feel like I am coming up short, but is this true?
I am trying to be patient with myself, and make peace with the fact that I am doing my best. My desire is always to do my best. Maybe I shouldn't be so hard on myself, but it certainly is hard not to do so. I am taking it one day at a time, practicing being gentle with myself and being positive.
There well be good times and difficult times in parenting. All of it is worth while because we do it for the ones we love the most. However, let's not forget to love on ourselves.
Are you like me, struggling to get those teens outside and away from their devices?
Those of us who grew up without cell phones and social media, understand the fun that can be had without devices. I wish that my children could understand the simplicity of riding their bicycles and playing tag. Instead, I literally have to beg them to engage in outdoor activity. The only exception is when they are at a theme park or on our family walks. Other than that I have to beg them and even then they will be clicking away on their devices.
I know it's not just me that goes through this with teens, even with technology restrictions it is still a hassle. Meanwhile, my children have two brand new bicycles collecting dust in the garage. Me with my bright ideas also got them roller skates for Christmas, hoping that they would learn how to skate. They were interested until they actually got the skates. I know that in their eyes I am that annoying mom hassling them to do activities without their devices. I just want them to be well rounded and not get sucked into the vortex of technology. Is that too much to ask!
I am sure that some will say that I sound like a nagging mom right now. I am not trying to be a nag, I just want them to take everything in moderation and have healthy habits. I don't think that's too much to ask for. How do you help your teens to develop healthy habits with technology? Share your ideas in the comments.
After this long school year of virtual learning I was happy to take a break. Finally, summer is upon us and I am happy to get some rest and relaxation with my family. We started the summer with a vacation to Florida and it was well needed, it was great to get away from the normal day to day hustle. As time goes by, I find that I am in need of more restful days and more vacations with my family. The days, weeks, months and even years go by so quickly. Most of the time is spent doing business, it is refreshing to take a break and relax. I also took a break from writing my blog for a few weeks, I needed to take a step back and collect my thoughts and give birth to new ideas. I am thankful for this time of reflection and relaxation, moving forward I do know that I want to practice more self-care and mindfulness. This is the recharge that I will need, and we all need to recharge as a family and that where family vacations come into play.Vacations help us to decompress from the pressures of life, and have quality time with each other. Time is slipping by and I want to have moments and make more memories with my family.
The Relaxation Zone
Over vacation my family and I hopped on a flight to Florida and checked into a beautiful resort for four days. prior to that we checked in our puppy in a pet hotel, her had his very own private room with snacks, playtime and daily walks. It's only fair that he had a nice place to stay because we were staying in a nice place. After all he is a member of the family. Now back to our lovely stay at our Floridian resort. We had multiple pools and activities to choose from, not to mention the beautiful villa we stayed in. We did some swimming and our favorite thing to do was play miniature golf. Whenever we stay on a resort we have our competitive game of miniature golf. We also got a chance to go to Universal Studios, two rides was enough for me, I enjoy the shows more than the rides. My kids are the same way, they enjoy looking around and of course doing shopping at the stores. They are not fans of rides except when we go to our favorite water park Dorney Park & Wild Water Kingdom. We also got a chance to catch up with family, we took my mom out for her birthday and went to visit her home. We also rented a car for our trip so we got to drive around the area and get to know the lay of the land. I can't forget to mention that we also joined the resort as club members so we can travel and vacation with ease. It was quite an adventure! The only hiccups that I encountered was some heat exhaustion while visiting Universal Studios. Florida has the most confusing weather, it can be hot outside with spots of rain in one moment and the next it's sunny and hot like the rain never happened. Luckily, I was able to hydrate and recover from the heat exhaustion. All and all it was a good get away and I hope that we can do another get away soon. Hydration is a must especially in this heat.
What are your plans for the summer, I hope that you too get the break and rest that you need.
I don't know about you, but I am happy that the summer is nearly here. I am going to find time to breathe and reconnect with my family. It's time to disconnect from the pressure and get into a slower pace of things. I am writing this short blog entry to make the point that, I am looking forward to taking a break from the deadlines and noise to smell the roses with my family. I plan to make good use of my time, connecting with family and friends. Reading some good books and taking good care of myself mentally and physically. Life isn't perfect but I am still here and thankful for it all. I am living in the present because yesterday is gone and tomorrow will take care of it's self. Wishing you a healthy and happy summer.
