I had to lay my jeans to rest today. I was hoping when this day came it would be because I needed to replace them with a smaller size. I even fantasized about tossing them joyfully away and allowing them to retire in peace.
But the fact is, they were pushed to their limits in many different ways and it finally gave in and tore in places that would have been socially unacceptable to sew patches on.
To view the full diary click here.
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Friday, November 21, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: November 21st 2014
I have come to the conclusion that my war on clutter is of essence. The less stuff we have, the less there will be to throw around.
That's my new plan for keeping the house neat - we just won't have any more things.
To view the full diary click here.
That's my new plan for keeping the house neat - we just won't have any more things.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: November 20th 2014
Little Z's favorite activities now are:
1. Place all bath mats in the tub and turn the tap to soak them.
2. Throw giant blocks from the top of the stairs.
3. Take apart older brothers' Lego creations - and spread the tiny pieces over the largest span of space possible.
4. Set up a 'Spot the Oddity' game for me by placing potatoes in cabinets, toy parts in the laundry basket and all sorts of important objects inside our shoes.
5. Tear up the toilet paper roll and throw some of the tiny pieces into the toilet - while I'm using it.
I have however discovered that I can get a few minutes of peace if I let him empty out a kitchen cabinet full of plastics or play with two containers and a few pieces of dry pasta! This is my accomplished version of organized chaos.
To view the full diary click here.
1. Place all bath mats in the tub and turn the tap to soak them.
2. Throw giant blocks from the top of the stairs.
3. Take apart older brothers' Lego creations - and spread the tiny pieces over the largest span of space possible.
4. Set up a 'Spot the Oddity' game for me by placing potatoes in cabinets, toy parts in the laundry basket and all sorts of important objects inside our shoes.
5. Tear up the toilet paper roll and throw some of the tiny pieces into the toilet - while I'm using it.
I have however discovered that I can get a few minutes of peace if I let him empty out a kitchen cabinet full of plastics or play with two containers and a few pieces of dry pasta! This is my accomplished version of organized chaos.
To view the full diary click here.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: November 19th 2014
My phone no longer displays the date on the home screen... I'm so lost!
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: November 18th 2014
Sometimes God takes us for a spin. We get exactly what we asked for so that we learn the infinite wisdom in having true faith.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 21st 2014
I've found something I hate far worse than lunchbox preparation...homework.
It's absolutely ruining our family life. I could write an essay on homework and why it should be limited (and I'd include the many points the boys repeatedly argue on the subject) but that would be a waste of the few minutes of sanity I have left of my time with the boys.
So let's just say I probably hate homework more than the boys do.
To view the full diary click here.
It's absolutely ruining our family life. I could write an essay on homework and why it should be limited (and I'd include the many points the boys repeatedly argue on the subject) but that would be a waste of the few minutes of sanity I have left of my time with the boys.
So let's just say I probably hate homework more than the boys do.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 10th 2014
Little Z is a moth. He always has been drawn to the light, but apparently now he's also the type of moth that leaves holes in my clothes.
Those are some sharp teeth he's cutting and my poor garments are suffering the consequences.
To view the full diary click here.
Those are some sharp teeth he's cutting and my poor garments are suffering the consequences.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 7th 2014
We've discovered T is a little squirrel. The biggest tip off was the collection of acorns he brought home and stashed away.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, October 5, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 5th 2014
If you stifle voices, and don't allow them to be heard, they will find a way to be heard anyway.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 4th 2014
I cannot get over the beautiful weather today. Cooler weather - we have missed you.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 3rd 2014
I know it's October and Halloween is coming up and all that, but - who let the goons out?
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: October 1st 2014
Dealt with so many narrow minds today that it actually constricted my breathing.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 30th 2014
Little Z signed bird today and it was adorable. I also think he's signing some version of milk and eat. During parachute time in his class today he came over and lay his head down on me saying 'awaw.'
As for his older brothers, today I realized that homework is often an unnecessary evil.
To view the full diary click here.
As for his older brothers, today I realized that homework is often an unnecessary evil.
To view the full diary click here.
Monday, September 29, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 29th 2014
Once you grocery shop at 7am, you can't go back to grocery shopping at later times.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 28th 2014
Little Z is 'talking' more now and trying words out. He's also pointing with his index finger to what he wants. Our 'conversations' delight me but my favorite is when he rests his head on me and says "awaw" which means 'I love you.'
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 27th 2014
They announced MVP during Saturday soccer today. Just before we were praying it wasn't T. He certainly deserves it and it's about time his talent was recognized but we feared what was to come.
And sure enough, hurricane O hit with a vengeance as soon as T was called up to receive his honorary ball.
To view the full diary click here.
And sure enough, hurricane O hit with a vengeance as soon as T was called up to receive his honorary ball.
To view the full diary click here.
Friday, September 26, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 26th 2014
Last night T was completing a crossword puzzle. He decided on a 5 letter word to fit but there were only 4 boxes allocated or it. So he just drew an extra box to fit his last letter in.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 23rd 3014
I think I might be turning into some sort of technology snob... or victim maybe? Of course I totally
blame my husband, he's the one who introduces me to these things but...me?
Promoter of getting back to nature, simple living and making do with less etc. etc.?
I am now getting more than slightly annoyed that our mailbox doesn't come with key-less features and scoffing fridges that don't have water auto-fill.
(*Sigh...) What is the world coming to?
To view the full diary click here.
Promoter of getting back to nature, simple living and making do with less etc. etc.?
I am now getting more than slightly annoyed that our mailbox doesn't come with key-less features and scoffing fridges that don't have water auto-fill.
(*Sigh...) What is the world coming to?
To view the full diary click here.
Monday, September 22, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 22nd 2014
The sun looked strange this morning. A large red circle still close to the horizon as it rose. I showed it to the boys and O said "How do you know that's the sun and not some huge ball of fiery destruction ready to be slung onto us?" (or some other wording very close to that).
I was silently terrified at this point but then T (my look-on-the-bright-side kid) chimed "I know it's the sun because there is no giant sling shot behind it."
Good point. Phew!
To view the full diary click here.
I was silently terrified at this point but then T (my look-on-the-bright-side kid) chimed "I know it's the sun because there is no giant sling shot behind it."
Good point. Phew!
To view the full diary click here.
Saturday, September 20, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 20th 2014
O is adamant about practicing the trumpet. In fact he's going to put that down as his example of perseverence on his Taekwondo challenge card.
And as I hear the sounds he's making and see his loyal brother by his side listening with a barely hidden distressed facial contortion, I wonder if when I hear him play at the end of the year whether my tears will be of pure joy or pained discomfort?
To view the full diary click here.
And as I hear the sounds he's making and see his loyal brother by his side listening with a barely hidden distressed facial contortion, I wonder if when I hear him play at the end of the year whether my tears will be of pure joy or pained discomfort?
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 19th 2014
I've found little Z's super power - just like Jack Jack from "The Incredibles." And the scratch next to my nose from the last time he transformed took longer to heal than that vicious wasp sting from the other day!
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Wednesday, September 17, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 17th 2014
I'm seriously the only chirpy one at the grocery store at 7am. I can't get over how wonderful it is to make use of this time and shop when almost no one is around.
The cashiers on the other hand seem extra grumpy. It's almost as if they see a bubble over my head that reads "chirp chirp" and then they put up their own speech bubble that says "what are you so happy about? (grumpy face)."
To view the full diary click here.
The cashiers on the other hand seem extra grumpy. It's almost as if they see a bubble over my head that reads "chirp chirp" and then they put up their own speech bubble that says "what are you so happy about? (grumpy face)."
To view the full diary click here.
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Simple Pleasures: Some of the best things to do with boys - Part 1
“The best things in life aren't things.” ~ Art Buchwald
The challenges and joys that we've experienced as a family in many parts of the world, have taught us how to truly enjoy the simple pleasures in life, wherever we may be.
Some of the best things we've done together are simple, can be done almost anywhere, and only cost a little of your time and involvement - which is what children cherish most anyway!
Simple pleasures my boys have enjoyed:
1. Picking & pressing wildflowers.
Walking outdoors looking for flowers to pick is fun, exciting and easy.
We put the flowers in folded wax paper inside a heavy book and leave them for several days. We used them to make unique bookmarks by sticking the flowers to card paper and laminating them.
2. Water play.
It doesn't matter if it's a pool, a garden hose or the bathroom tub. You can even wash the car together and have them wear their swimsuits. We've done so many fun activities with water from splash pads to splashing in rain puddles. It's soothing and entertaining.
3. Growing plants.
We just recently picked the limes that ripened on the tree we planted in our backyard this year. Three years ago, in another posting, we had a somewhat 'wild' backyard area with many different fruit trees that ate straight from. But even when we lived in a home without a backyard, we grew cherry tomatoes and various herbs in a pot.
The boys love growing and watering plants and we are all excited when we get to pick and eat the fruits of our labor.
4. Quizzes.
We have done all kinds of quizzes, from guessing which poisonous animal we're describing to tracing letters with our fingers and figuring out which ones they are.
Online quizzes and quiz books work well too. Just pick a topic they like and a quiz that is appropriate to their level of knowledge.
5. Sidewalk Chalk.
Think outside of the white rectangle! In general, I've found that my boys prefer to write or draw when the medium is different to just paper.
Dry erase boards, sidewalks, shaving cream...anything but the good old paper and pencil becomes more attractive for their designs. It's fun and gets very creative too.
The challenges and joys that we've experienced as a family in many parts of the world, have taught us how to truly enjoy the simple pleasures in life, wherever we may be.
Some of the best things we've done together are simple, can be done almost anywhere, and only cost a little of your time and involvement - which is what children cherish most anyway!
Simple pleasures my boys have enjoyed:
1. Picking & pressing wildflowers.
Walking outdoors looking for flowers to pick is fun, exciting and easy.
We put the flowers in folded wax paper inside a heavy book and leave them for several days. We used them to make unique bookmarks by sticking the flowers to card paper and laminating them.
2. Water play.
It doesn't matter if it's a pool, a garden hose or the bathroom tub. You can even wash the car together and have them wear their swimsuits. We've done so many fun activities with water from splash pads to splashing in rain puddles. It's soothing and entertaining.
3. Growing plants.
We just recently picked the limes that ripened on the tree we planted in our backyard this year. Three years ago, in another posting, we had a somewhat 'wild' backyard area with many different fruit trees that ate straight from. But even when we lived in a home without a backyard, we grew cherry tomatoes and various herbs in a pot.
The boys love growing and watering plants and we are all excited when we get to pick and eat the fruits of our labor.
4. Quizzes.
We have done all kinds of quizzes, from guessing which poisonous animal we're describing to tracing letters with our fingers and figuring out which ones they are.
Online quizzes and quiz books work well too. Just pick a topic they like and a quiz that is appropriate to their level of knowledge.
5. Sidewalk Chalk.
Think outside of the white rectangle! In general, I've found that my boys prefer to write or draw when the medium is different to just paper.
Dry erase boards, sidewalks, shaving cream...anything but the good old paper and pencil becomes more attractive for their designs. It's fun and gets very creative too.
Friday, September 12, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 12th 2014
I've just realized that just about every year my New Years' Resolution is to talk less.
And I just realized I've had too many realizations this week!
To view the full diary click here.
And I just realized I've had too many realizations this week!
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 11th 2014
I'm slowly coming to the daunting realization, that O's fit throwing, over analyzing, getting the last word-in behaviors may have (shockingly) been inherited from me (gulp- as O would say).
I'm now wondering how my parents made it through my childhood. I need to call them and ask...
To view the full diary click here.
I'm now wondering how my parents made it through my childhood. I need to call them and ask...
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, September 11, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: Septmber 10th 2014
So apparently T thinks the lizard that he caught on the bus the other day (and was forced to throw out after the driver made an emergency stop) didn't die after all.
I was about to crack up when he told me the story of the bus lizard because I could just imagine all the screaming kids and the terrified (and slightly angry) bus driver pulling up in the middle of nowhere and making my reluctant child throw it out.
T however was distressed about the harm that may have come to his little buddy at the time so I suppressed my grin.
He's alright now because he truly believes the lizard made its way back home to their school and that he saw it there today.
To view the full diary click here.
I was about to crack up when he told me the story of the bus lizard because I could just imagine all the screaming kids and the terrified (and slightly angry) bus driver pulling up in the middle of nowhere and making my reluctant child throw it out.
T however was distressed about the harm that may have come to his little buddy at the time so I suppressed my grin.
He's alright now because he truly believes the lizard made its way back home to their school and that he saw it there today.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 9th 2014
Little Z crawls around crawling people Mama. I get 'Dia-per' and random people get 'Ma-ma."
Story of my life.
To view the full diary click here.
Story of my life.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 8th 2014
I have a love hate relationship with reading logs.
Great for T who would never read otherwise, awful for O who now has an added excuse to stay buried in his books!
To view the full diary click here.
Great for T who would never read otherwise, awful for O who now has an added excuse to stay buried in his books!
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 7th 2014
My boys things crazy is a positive and desirable quality in a mother.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 4th 2014
The early mommy...gets the ultimate parking spot at the grocery store!
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: September 2nd 2014
O told me he doesn't want to get married because he's afraid he'll have children that turn out just like him...?! Yap, I took a video recording of that!
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, August 31, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 31st 2014
We now have an eager trumpeter who likes to practice at home. This means our living room often sounds like there's a dying elephant in it.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Friday, August 29, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 29th 2014
Today I found out the grocery store close to the bus stop opens at 6am.
Grocery shopping in peace and making use of the fact that little Z and I were all dressed and ready to roll?
I was on a high that even all the early morning grumpy faces couldn't break :)
To view the full diary click here.
Grocery shopping in peace and making use of the fact that little Z and I were all dressed and ready to roll?
I was on a high that even all the early morning grumpy faces couldn't break :)
To view the full diary click here.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 27th 2014
For the past few days, Little Z has been in parrot mode. It will go down in history that he tries harder to say diaper than he does to say mummy.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 26th 2014
You know you're an exhausted parent when:
* a good night's sleep means any 3 hours in a row.
* you believe the cost of that toilet paper roll your little one is unraveling and shredding all over the floor is worth the two minutes of peace you'll get out of it.
To view the full diary click here.
* a good night's sleep means any 3 hours in a row.
* you believe the cost of that toilet paper roll your little one is unraveling and shredding all over the floor is worth the two minutes of peace you'll get out of it.
To view the full diary click here.
Monday, August 25, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 25th 2014
I don't get how apple's
new computers won't even have a CD/DVD slot as we move to digitizing
everything and meanwhile people are still asking me to fax things?!
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 24th 2014
I thought ironing uniforms was going to replace the dreaded lunchbox preparation as bane of my life but then hubby told me about the steam dewrinkle function on our dryer.
So now I love him that much more.
To view the full diary click here.
So now I love him that much more.
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 23rd 2014
In some miraculous twist of fate, we managed to downgrade to a trumpet.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Saturday, August 23, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 22nd 2014
I think I prefer the boys deep roaring to Little Z's new high pitched scream. I can literally feel it piercing my ear drums.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Friday, August 22, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 21st 2014
Of all the instruments in this world that he could play, O picks a Euphonium. A Euphonium.
What is that even?
To view the full diary click here.
What is that even?
To view the full diary click here.
Tuesday, August 19, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 18th 2014
I vacuumed today. I hadn't been able to clean in three days, which in our house is a whole other level of cleanliness low.
But, logistical reasons, like gusts of family issues that resulted in a slew of time draining phone calls, and trying to entertain two boys at the end of a long school-less summer as they prepare, in a jittery frenzy, for a new school that requires *gulp* uniforms has prevented it.
And now, in the ten minutes that some divine serenity took hold of our family, I vacuumed away as fast as I could and...wow!
As all those pesky crumbs and dust bunnies vanished beneath my magical vacuum wand, I marveled at this amazing life saving technology (in my exhausted sleep deprived point of view) and at the amazing peace of mind I got from being able to see my floors again.
To view the full diary click here.
But, logistical reasons, like gusts of family issues that resulted in a slew of time draining phone calls, and trying to entertain two boys at the end of a long school-less summer as they prepare, in a jittery frenzy, for a new school that requires *gulp* uniforms has prevented it.
And now, in the ten minutes that some divine serenity took hold of our family, I vacuumed away as fast as I could and...wow!
As all those pesky crumbs and dust bunnies vanished beneath my magical vacuum wand, I marveled at this amazing life saving technology (in my exhausted sleep deprived point of view) and at the amazing peace of mind I got from being able to see my floors again.
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, August 17, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 17th 2014
In the midst of our excitement about school starting next week, I got a haunting thought... lunchboxes.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 16th 2014
My slow and deliberate decluttering initiative seems to be working. I now have a rather messy dining table, covered in things I'm getting rid of, but I'm actually going through several areas and clearing things away.
I'm also a lot more careful about not buying needless items.
I can actually feel myself breathing better every time I set aside unwanted clutter items.
To view the full diary click here.
I'm also a lot more careful about not buying needless items.
I can actually feel myself breathing better every time I set aside unwanted clutter items.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 15th 2014
So little Z can't walk but he can climb stairs, unscrew bottles and turn the faucet on our tub. He already soaks himself by cupping his hands and bathing himself with the water.
He also shuffles over to where the pull out tub shower head is and attempts to turn that faucet as well. Once he figures that one out (which I anticipate will be within days) he will soak my entire bathroom.
Bring it on little one.
To view the full diary click here.
He also shuffles over to where the pull out tub shower head is and attempts to turn that faucet as well. Once he figures that one out (which I anticipate will be within days) he will soak my entire bathroom.
Bring it on little one.
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Sunday, August 10, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 10th 2014
Instead of our normally boring weekends, we decided to go on a day trip to our old college town and take the boys to see it and get some fan gear.
I'm not sure that it was anything super exciting for the boys but being back there brought a nostalgic mood to me. At first I felt sad thinking how full of potential I was back then.
But then I had a strange feeling come over me. It was like I suddenly remembered who I was as a person. As an individual. This feeling, of having an identity that is all mine and not an annex of anyone else, I needed that.
I love being a wife and a mom. But I also really like just being me.
To view the full diary click here.
I'm not sure that it was anything super exciting for the boys but being back there brought a nostalgic mood to me. At first I felt sad thinking how full of potential I was back then.
But then I had a strange feeling come over me. It was like I suddenly remembered who I was as a person. As an individual. This feeling, of having an identity that is all mine and not an annex of anyone else, I needed that.
I love being a wife and a mom. But I also really like just being me.
To view the full diary click here.
One Simple Idea To Clear the Clutter!
My new life philosophy: Do more with less.
Actually, this is neither new (I've been toying with this idea for years) nor really mine (articles on de-cluttering, living with less, minimalism etc. clutter the internet).
But after much thought, I finally homed in on my exact problem, I need a simpler life. I need less.
No more buying the perfect boxes, just to organize more things that I don't know what to do with in the first place! As Graham Hill says in his TED Talk "Less Stuff, More Happiness", I need to "edit" my life to "make room for the good stuff."
Now like I said, I've thought about this for literally years but have never managed to do anything about it. Why? Quite frankly because... well where would I start? There is chaos and clutter in ever corner of my home that makes me want to give up just by looking at it. And I never seem to run out of excuses for not tackling it!
Then today, on a short road trip, it finally came to me.
Baby steps. Fun. Dedication.
So I made a list of all the small sections of our house that we
could de-clutter. I wrote each item
on a separate index card, folded it up and stuffed it in a jar marked De-Clutter.
Our family will now pull out one card each day. It's a small 5-10 minute commitment (we started right away today when we got home). The boys, for now, are intrigued.
We'll do it in baby steps - one card a day, it will be fun - pull out a card and see what we'll tackle and we will be dedicated - a short daily commitment of 5-10 minutes.
Of course during the actually process, I make sure to follow these two main tips from experts that write articles on minimizing clutter. (I especially like http://www.becomingminimalist.com/)
1. Stop the inflow of things - this is a BIG one for me. I am trying to only buy essentials (like school uniforms) or if I really want something new, I give my old one - and somethings I try to give several old ones - away in exchange.
2. Be ruthless - really get rid of stuff. For each item on my index card, I am really looking with an eye to eliminate and liberate.
I can already breathe better.
If you have any tips for getting rid of clutter or living a simpler life, feel free to share in the comments below!
Actually, this is neither new (I've been toying with this idea for years) nor really mine (articles on de-cluttering, living with less, minimalism etc. clutter the internet).
But after much thought, I finally homed in on my exact problem, I need a simpler life. I need less.
No more buying the perfect boxes, just to organize more things that I don't know what to do with in the first place! As Graham Hill says in his TED Talk "Less Stuff, More Happiness", I need to "edit" my life to "make room for the good stuff."
Now like I said, I've thought about this for literally years but have never managed to do anything about it. Why? Quite frankly because... well where would I start? There is chaos and clutter in ever corner of my home that makes me want to give up just by looking at it. And I never seem to run out of excuses for not tackling it!
Then today, on a short road trip, it finally came to me.
Baby steps. Fun. Dedication.
So I made a list of all the small sections of our house that we
could de-clutter. I wrote each item
on a separate index card, folded it up and stuffed it in a jar marked De-Clutter.Our family will now pull out one card each day. It's a small 5-10 minute commitment (we started right away today when we got home). The boys, for now, are intrigued.
We'll do it in baby steps - one card a day, it will be fun - pull out a card and see what we'll tackle and we will be dedicated - a short daily commitment of 5-10 minutes.
Of course during the actually process, I make sure to follow these two main tips from experts that write articles on minimizing clutter. (I especially like http://www.becomingminimalist.com/)
1. Stop the inflow of things - this is a BIG one for me. I am trying to only buy essentials (like school uniforms) or if I really want something new, I give my old one - and somethings I try to give several old ones - away in exchange.
2. Be ruthless - really get rid of stuff. For each item on my index card, I am really looking with an eye to eliminate and liberate.
I can already breathe better.
If you have any tips for getting rid of clutter or living a simpler life, feel free to share in the comments below!
Friday, August 8, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 8th 2014
I've been toying with the idea of "Less is More" and de-cluttering etc. I did a quick online search and there are many articles and one particularly interesting TED talk that help address the issue.
Today I begin to 'edit' my life and remove the things that are bogging me down. In the span of two minutes after watching that TED video I have already had some great ideas on what I can give away and throw out. It's amazing, my mind has been blocked for weeks on this and now it's like a "clearing of the arteries" as he mentions in his video!
To view the full diary click here.
Today I begin to 'edit' my life and remove the things that are bogging me down. In the span of two minutes after watching that TED video I have already had some great ideas on what I can give away and throw out. It's amazing, my mind has been blocked for weeks on this and now it's like a "clearing of the arteries" as he mentions in his video!
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, August 7, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 7th 2014
Little Z turned one earlier this week and I am still in disbelief that a whole year has gone by. A year since he surprised (and blessed) us by showing up almost two weeks before his due date and a few days before the planned C-Section.
And what a year it's been! Definitely lined with challenges: A move after only 11 months in our previous location, a baby that came just as we were between our two month hotel stay and moving into our new home, hubby falling sick unexpectedly with a relatively uncommon condition when little Z was just six weeks old and our public school experience which to put simply was disastrous.
But if I were to summarize this past year with a memory I know will stay etched in my mind forever, then it would be at the Atlanta airport on our way back from Alabama visiting family.
T was pushing little Z around in our travel stroller while his dad and I took care of check in. Apparently, T was using the line dividers and markings on the floor to outline his 'race track' as he took little Z around all the while commentating on the 'race.'
He took a turn at a relatively high speed and I saw the stroller almost tip to the side. As I gasped and started towards them, I noticed little Z's face. The look of sheer delight he had just melted my heart.
All of a sudden I was no longer stressed about him falling. Instead I had the utmost gratitude for my beautiful children and their beautiful minds and creative thoughts. I can honestly say I didn't care what anyone at that airport thought about what they were doing or what kind of a mom I was to let them do it.
I was truly happy because to me, moments like these are what life, and especially life with kids, is all about.
And my own smile at this realization must have been contagious because people around seemed more amused than anything else. (That and people in Alabama and Georgia have beautiful hearts).
To view the full diary click here.
And what a year it's been! Definitely lined with challenges: A move after only 11 months in our previous location, a baby that came just as we were between our two month hotel stay and moving into our new home, hubby falling sick unexpectedly with a relatively uncommon condition when little Z was just six weeks old and our public school experience which to put simply was disastrous.
But if I were to summarize this past year with a memory I know will stay etched in my mind forever, then it would be at the Atlanta airport on our way back from Alabama visiting family.
T was pushing little Z around in our travel stroller while his dad and I took care of check in. Apparently, T was using the line dividers and markings on the floor to outline his 'race track' as he took little Z around all the while commentating on the 'race.'
He took a turn at a relatively high speed and I saw the stroller almost tip to the side. As I gasped and started towards them, I noticed little Z's face. The look of sheer delight he had just melted my heart.
All of a sudden I was no longer stressed about him falling. Instead I had the utmost gratitude for my beautiful children and their beautiful minds and creative thoughts. I can honestly say I didn't care what anyone at that airport thought about what they were doing or what kind of a mom I was to let them do it.
I was truly happy because to me, moments like these are what life, and especially life with kids, is all about.
And my own smile at this realization must have been contagious because people around seemed more amused than anything else. (That and people in Alabama and Georgia have beautiful hearts).
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 6th 2014
Today we had a small victory. That pesky spider that secretly crawled into my water boiler kettle, then in the hole that leads to the transparent water indicator section of the kettle and then died when I unsuspectingly boiled the water has finally been removed!
Apparently my idea to tilt the kettle so the dead spider lines up with the hole and then use a vacuum with an attachment (thank you Lint Lizard) to suck it back out through the hole was pure genius.
Ah the good life!
To view the full diary click here.
Apparently my idea to tilt the kettle so the dead spider lines up with the hole and then use a vacuum with an attachment (thank you Lint Lizard) to suck it back out through the hole was pure genius.
Ah the good life!
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, August 3, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: August 3rd 2014
Sometimes I want to give myself a high five. Like when I get through a trip - airports, flight etc without any major mishaps related to the kids, or when I come home and find that I had cleaned up pretty well before we left. Go me!
Now if only I can pull off a great 15 year anniversary gift and a way to off load the kids so we can go out and celebrate all in the span of tomorrow morning while the kids are with me, then I'd actually be medal worthy...
To view the full diary click here.
Now if only I can pull off a great 15 year anniversary gift and a way to off load the kids so we can go out and celebrate all in the span of tomorrow morning while the kids are with me, then I'd actually be medal worthy...
To view the full diary click here.
Monday, July 21, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 21st 2014
I've been finding potatoes all over our house. Little Z's been redecorating again. His infatuation with potato art and pulling all our shoes off the shoe racks baffles and yet amuses me.
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, July 20, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 20th 2014
I don't think my boys know what the meaning of quiet is. Not a matter of refusing to cooperate or being defiant, no, the problem runs far deeper.
They just have no idea what quiet would mean. They cannot imagine what quiet would look and sound like.
To view the full diary click here.
They just have no idea what quiet would mean. They cannot imagine what quiet would look and sound like.
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 17th 2014
Listening to my boys today, couldn't help but remember that one year ago they were saying things like "No-lah," "Let's go to the pool-lah" adding 'lah' to the end of most phrases like a true Malaysian local would.
A year before that, they were conversing with children in a small Romanian town in what I've been told was fluent Romanian, while learning the words to "O Tannenbaum," the German version of "Oh Christmas Tree."
Today, in true Texas fashion they exclaim "Aw, Dang it!"
I cannot fathom how these boys will turn out, but I'm quite certain they will have a broad-spectrum of skills and a great deal of confusion.
To view the full diary click here.
A year before that, they were conversing with children in a small Romanian town in what I've been told was fluent Romanian, while learning the words to "O Tannenbaum," the German version of "Oh Christmas Tree."
Today, in true Texas fashion they exclaim "Aw, Dang it!"
I cannot fathom how these boys will turn out, but I'm quite certain they will have a broad-spectrum of skills and a great deal of confusion.
To view the full diary click here.
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 16th 2014
As soon as I'd shut the toilet door, little Z came crawling at high speed, sat behind the door and whimpered loudly. Finding am empty toilet roll insert, I pushed it gently under the door and watched as it slowly got pulled from the other side.
Today's greatest accomplishment: Five minutes of blissful toilet time.
To view the full diary click here.
Today's greatest accomplishment: Five minutes of blissful toilet time.
To view the full diary click here.
Book Review "Raising Global Nomads" by Robin Pascoe
This book is written by Canadian author Robin Pascoe, whose children grew up as Third Culture Kids (TCKs) as the family moved with the father's work to several locations around the world. Pascoe has given numerous presentations to expat families in many international schools around the world. The book gives a good overview of the challenges expatriates may face. It outlines various things to consider and research before a move, and some ideas and tips on dealing with some of the issues that may arise as a result of this nomadic lifestyle, including important child rearing issues unique to this lifestyle or exaggerated by it.
Pascoe does not go into any particular topic very deeply but rather touches on challenges faced by the modern nomadic family. Think more magazine article style - making a list of points important to the topic and discussing them briefly while giving some useful pointers. It's like a series of these articles covering many relevant matters of an expat life.
The target audience is clearly families that generally move to a new country every few years. The book is also mainly written from the perspective of a North American moving to other parts of the world. Many aspects of Pascoe's experience as a Canadian living abroad are relevant to all global nomads but readers originally from other parts of the world may not relate to many of her examples or repatriation experiences.
Repatriation, also takes on a whole new meaning if parents are TCKs and were already global nomads as children themselves. This makes the experience go beyond simply returning home and adjusting the children there because home is already a vague destination.
What resonated most with me personally, was the contribution from Barbara Schaetti entitled "A Most Excellent Journey." This is the final section of the book and covers an important topic - identity search for Third Culture Kids. In this section, Schaetti showed the stages of identity development for global nomads and gave a discussion on how parents can offer some support and guidance on this matter.
Suggestions like familiarizing our children with the terms "Third Culture Kids" and "Global Nomads" so they have a starting point for research when they embark on identity exploration are very helpful. Also, the point that struggling with identity is a stage all adolescents go through but that it might be delayed and compounded for TCKs is an important one to consider. Ideally parents want to help their children (and if they are TCKs like me, themselves) to figure out who they are and realize they are in a unique situation compared to what she terms "homegrown" peers.
Resolution can be beneficial if they become what she calls 'constructively marginal global nomads' and she says: "While they may not feel at home anywhere, constructively marginal global nomads feel somewhat at home everywhere..." This rings true for someone like me, struggling myself to find 'home' and therefore not having a clue where to start to help my children.
I found some of Pascoe's tips very useful and below are my favorite ones from this book:
1. The creation of family traditions as an important grounding point for global nomads- I've discussed this more in depth here.
2. The idea of creating a 'clean team.' When Pascoe returned to Canada and house help was not available for her family like it was in Asia and other overseas postings, she planned that once a week, as a family, they would clean the house together.
This has been a great addition to our lives! It's a relief for me ,and a team building activity for the family (regardless of the complaints I received from the boys - husband included).
3. The importance of repatriation and intentionally preparing for it, even while still living internationally. I hadn't given this idea too much thought but it is very very sound advice.
4. Teaching children responsibility and accountability - expat or not this is important, but it does tend to be essential in a life where material things come more easily and the stresses of moving and readjusting may cause some parents to overlook these crucial elements of raising wonderful people.
Tuesday, July 15, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 15th 2014
While practicing their kicks at Taekwondo today, the instructor asked what they had to remember to maintain their balance. Naturally, O was the one who remembered the tip she had previously given them, and raised his hand eagerly to share. She acknowledged his response immediately and emphatically, "Yes! Squeeze your butt!"
My two seem to never tire of chuckling at that one.
Back at home, O informed me that the word 'buttock' was in fact found in their dictionary at school, "with a description and everything."
I said "yes, it's the official word for..." and he chimed in nonchalantly with "the fleshy part of your romp." I couldn't contain my giggles.
To view the full diary click here.
My two seem to never tire of chuckling at that one.
Back at home, O informed me that the word 'buttock' was in fact found in their dictionary at school, "with a description and everything."
I said "yes, it's the official word for..." and he chimed in nonchalantly with "the fleshy part of your romp." I couldn't contain my giggles.
To view the full diary click here.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 13th 2014
The events of the past days have been a good reminder of how blessed one is. Sometimes, a couple of life's curve balls really knock things into perspective. I wonder if this has anything to do with my renewed prayers to remain humble?
To view the full diary click here.
To view the full diary click here.
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 10th 2014
Little Z has become quite adept at emptying the contents of any drawers or cabinets within his reach. And now that he pulls up and likes to stand on tip toes, his reach has expanded as well.
When I call his name because he's pulling something out that he shouldn't, he now reaches to hand it to me right away with an innocent look. I have to admit, it melts my heart.
To view the full diary click here.
When I call his name because he's pulling something out that he shouldn't, he now reaches to hand it to me right away with an innocent look. I have to admit, it melts my heart.
To view the full diary click here.
Monday, July 7, 2014
Book Review: "How to Talk So Kids Will Listen & Listen So Kids Will Talk" Faber & Mazlish
This is absolutely one of my favorite parenting books of all time! I first read it 8 years ago and have read it roughly once a year, every year, since then.In fact, I see it more as a blueprint for effective communication than a parenting book because the skills it outlines are useful when communicating with anyone. The ideas in the book are by no means radically new, but their simplicity and common sense are what makes this such a great - and fairly easy - read.
In each chapter, Faber and Mazlish discuss a communication concept - with discussions and examples from their workshops followed by cartoons illustrating the communication 'skill' learned vs the ineffective way. Each chapter then ends with a quick summary sheet (which proves extremely useful after you've read the book and just want to recap the ideas as you practice them).
The first chapter discussed the simple yet overlooked concept of acknowledging a child's feelings. When a child comes crying to you because they are hurt - either physically or emotionally - it makes the world of difference to just acknowledge their feelings, out loud. This not only helps young children better learn to identify and name their feelings (a crucial skill for emotional intelligence) but to feel safe and understood so they can share more with you and be more willing to contribute to finding a solution.
The chapters that follow are just as invaluable, covering concepts such as describing a situation instead of blaming or nagging, and guiding a child problem solve rather than rushing in with advice. There is even a chapter that discusses the most effective way to praise a child and one about alternatives to punishment.
At first it isn't easy to retrain ourselves to communicate this way (hence my having to reread the book and refresh my memory annually), but with a little diligence it gets easier and works wonders. I know because I've tried it and have seen the amazing results not just with my sons but also with my husband and even siblings and friends. Who doesn't appreciate feeling acknowledged, understood and like they have support yet the freedom to effectively take ownership of their problems?
Faber & Mazlish have many excellent books out, including "Siblings Without Rivalry," "How to Talk So Teens Will Listen & Listen So Teens Will Talk," etc. They are all worth reading as well, but if I were to pick one, at least to start off with, this is the one I would choose. It's a communication skills book that expands way beyond the parent child relationship and these are skills that can easily be translated into adult relationships even in the workplace.
This book is easy to read and follow through, with a clear layout and concepts explained simply and plainly. The hardest part is implementing the new skills and making them a habit. Having said that, ever since I first read this book, I have been extremely passionate about this effective way of communicating and have used it successfully in many areas of my life, whether with my children, students or in adult conversation.
To see all the book reviews I have posted so far please click here.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Diary of a Confused Mom: July 5th 2014
At bedtime, O leaned over from the top bunk and said "Mommy, thank you for all that you've done for me."
I told him I loved him and blew him a kiss.
It's moments like these - rare as they may be - that a mom realizes that one day these children may blossom into fantastic human beings after all.
To view the full diary click here.
I told him I loved him and blew him a kiss.
It's moments like these - rare as they may be - that a mom realizes that one day these children may blossom into fantastic human beings after all.
To view the full diary click here.
Three Unconventional First Aid Items I Can't Live Without!
My Boys
They bounce and jump
and crash and bump
Climb any where, or thing, they choose
Then fall and bruise
Drag in the mud and dirt
scraped knees, blood and hurt
Kiss away their pain
and off they go again
Laughter and delight
bounding out of sight
Scrapes, bumps and bruises are just a regular part of my family's daily life. Like many boys (and girls), mine like to explore, experiment and release energy - sometimes in explosive bursts that end a little on the painful side for them.
It takes a lot to faze me now. We've had our fair share of accidents and illnesses ranging from mild bumps and scrapes to sudden fevers and severe bruises and since some of these things happen in locations we have lived in where medical care was sub par, we've often had to take matters into our own hands.
We once even glued a cut above my son's eye with medical glue and little plaster strips to avoid going to the hospital for stitches in a location where the medical care was quite dubious.
We've used a host of home treatments but here are three items that I make sure I always have on hand and that have seen us through numerous mishaps throughout the years.
1. Arnica Cream
This is the ultimate solution for bruises. It soothes them and speeds up recovery. It also makes them less unsightly and the boys love that there is some care that can be given to their bruises.Just be careful, it's not meant to be used on open wounds.
2. Calendula Cream/Ointment
The cream and ointment are basically the same except the ointment is stronger - and a lot more messy. I use both but generally go to the ointment if the cut looks bad.This is my go to solution for any scrape or cut. It disinfects and promotes healing. I have also found that it soothes the sting of the cut.
Calendula was what the homeopath I follow up with recommended for my C-Section scar.
Once I cut my toe very badly on our stone fireplace. It was so deep and ghastly I could hardly look at it. I washed it and smothered in calendula ointment with a band aid to cover it for a few days. It was like magic.
3. Star of Anise
This is great to make into a tea and use when you have the flu or related viruses. This got me through a horrible flu when I was five months pregnant and visiting China. I didn't want to take medication so I sipped this tea often and it really made a difference.I've had friends also report that helped them a lot when they had the flu. This was a tip from a doctor friend when we were once again in a place where proper medical care would have been scarce. He told me over the phone that Tammy Flu was actually made from an ingredient found in Star of Anise. Now my cabinets are always stacked of this stuff!
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