There are a handful of moments that stand out so clearly in my parenting memory. These are the times when I realize that the next words out of my mouth have the potential to significantly shape my child’s worldview, or, if not on that grandiose scale, then they could certainly shape my family’s trajectory through … [Read more…]
As the snowflakes fall outside the window, my mind can’t help but wander toward warmer and brighter days. I know it is on the horizon, as the camp forms pile up, and the girls ask for some new activity or trip every day. Summer. Not my favorite time of the year, that’s for sure, as … [Read more…]
The New York Times had an article a few years back that emphasized the vital importance of a family narrative when it comes to our children developing a strong sense of self. The knowledge that they are part of a bigger whole, and a whole that has had both shining moments, and those not as … [Read more…]
As we approach milestones in our own lives, I’ve found it pertinent to preserve these milestones for our children to reflect upon in the future. Lessons learned in motherhood, memories treasured, values cultivated; these all need to be passed on. Half of my childhood was spent without my father, because he died in a car … [Read more…]
Each spring, as I compile information for my annual review, The Engineer and I choose childcare for our daughters. With so many little ones, does it make sense for me to work? (Spoiler alert: that answer is always yes). Should we look into a new childcare set up? Should The Engineer or I spend more … [Read more…]
It is tough to know what baby pharmacy essentials to buy. If there’s one place I’ve spent oodles of money during my mommy-tenure, it’s in the baby aisle at Target. More specifically, the pharmacy section of the baby aisle at Target. I mean, could there be any more choices? I tried a whole host of … [Read more…]
When Laura Claire was starting preschool, I had such a clear vision of just how involved I would be as a parent. I signed up to help at all the class parties, always picked her up in person (never daring to arrange a carpool), and spent an exorbitant amount of energy trying to figure out … [Read more…]
For October, it was fairly warm and sunny, with the leaves not having changed, as we sat on the sidelines of our daughter’s soccer game. It was the kind of game where the girls moved in amoeba fashion after the ball as the coaches encouraged them to pass to each other, with the vain hope … [Read more…]
It took a kid’s cup to remind me, but pieces of the school year are designed to make parents LONG for summer. And this is coming from a self-proclaimed summertime hater. So that’s saying ALOT. Why are we so busy? Don’t get me wrong; I love activities. I love structure. I love the community we’ve … [Read more…]
It was starting to play out over and over again, like a broken record designed to bring my life into rather harsh perspective. Sweet, older lady, who is a total stranger, all smiles and full of merriment: “Oh, Santa’s going to bring you a baby for Christmas!” Me, faking a smile for the 9,000th time: … [Read more…]