The Happy Days Blog
Wednesday, November 30, 2016
Mid Week Humor: Noise reduction?
Fact: Riding a scooter across hardwood floors isn't any less quiet than riding a big wheel, while mama is on the phone trying to pay bills. But thanks for the effort kids... Motherhood.
Monday, November 28, 2016
Our holiday weekend...
As all the other children's holiday vacation is coming to an end, ours is still very vibrant and full, since our district still continues to strike. Time seems endless and moments are fruitful. I feel like everyday will be like the last and returning to school was just a horrid reoccurring nightmare.
We packed away the final pumpkin things and encapsulated our doorways with garland strung lights. We put the final touches on the outdoor lights and decorations and finished our home in multicolored loveliness. Thanksgiving came and went in a blur. My daughter helped me set the table. I remember the way her little hands tightly grasped the cups as they teetered from the kitchen to our dining room. She talked all the while, starting one story where the previous one ended. She pulled the ceramic turkeys from my corner cabinet to place at each setting. She said she remembered the stories I once told about my grandmother always having them on our Thanksgiving table when I was little.
This year was my first Thanksgiving cooking the entire dinner myself and it didn't go as smoothly as I had hoped. Our turkey tasted wonderful, but somehow fully cooked 2.5 hours earlier than expected, about 5 lbs of boiled potatoes strained down our drain, and my bundt cake fried in the convection oven because I forgot to change the temperature from 450 to 325. But somehow, it was all made right when family gathered around our table.
The next day, when Black Friday is filled with packed stores, tired people, and grumpy sale associates, we stay cozied up at my in-laws for our annual Thanksgiving #2. This is the scene where cousins of all ages run rampant, play with toys, play hide and go seek, and whatever else their little minds can muster up. Each room of the home is louder than the next and people are scattered, talking up their days and plans for the holiday season. The boys are in front of the television, talking football and sometimes cheering louder than the children are laughing. It's a scene that reminds me of my holiday dinners as a child. One that I hold close to my heart and I'm happy that my children are able to share.
After Thanksgiving was put to rest and our hearts were full of gratitude, we drove to our local tree farm to pick out our favorite tree. My daughter immediately loved the first tree she saw and begged for it. But my son, walked away in his oversized rain boots, dragging his outstretched arms across the silky branches. We watched him slow down at some and silently inspect the trees, then carry on until he stopped at just one. One, he said, was the "prettiest tree" he had ever seen. My daughter followed his voice to the tree where she absolutely agreed that it was our tree to come home with us...
I felt like Christmas was just a few days ago. But nonetheless, our tree is finally decorated and the village glows under the colorful Christmas lights. This was the first year where I sat back and allowed them the freedom to do the entire tree and village by themselves. I, of course, strung the lights and arranged the houses so they were accessible to electrical outlets. But, they worked together and in between the laughing and talking, they finished...
And it was beautiful, so beautiful, that I didn't have to go back and rearrange anything.
And when our home was dark and quiet, I sat beside that tree with only it's glow emanating the room. I replayed the day, the week, and even the month over in my head. I thought about family and our days spent laughing. I thought about bedtime and the way both my children persuade me to stay in their rooms, just a little bit longer. The stories they tell. I'm not sure what I did before these little conversations took place. Or the complete randomness and things out of the ordinary. But, what will always remain are the memories of holidays, their love for each other, and these little conversations that seem to linger in the air long after my children have left the room. And if the room is quiet enough, I could hear their laughter and the questions only my daughter would ask. I can hear their smaller voice in between the beats of my heart. And that's where they'll remain, until the quietest hour, so I can replay them again and again...
We packed away the final pumpkin things and encapsulated our doorways with garland strung lights. We put the final touches on the outdoor lights and decorations and finished our home in multicolored loveliness. Thanksgiving came and went in a blur. My daughter helped me set the table. I remember the way her little hands tightly grasped the cups as they teetered from the kitchen to our dining room. She talked all the while, starting one story where the previous one ended. She pulled the ceramic turkeys from my corner cabinet to place at each setting. She said she remembered the stories I once told about my grandmother always having them on our Thanksgiving table when I was little.
This year was my first Thanksgiving cooking the entire dinner myself and it didn't go as smoothly as I had hoped. Our turkey tasted wonderful, but somehow fully cooked 2.5 hours earlier than expected, about 5 lbs of boiled potatoes strained down our drain, and my bundt cake fried in the convection oven because I forgot to change the temperature from 450 to 325. But somehow, it was all made right when family gathered around our table.
The next day, when Black Friday is filled with packed stores, tired people, and grumpy sale associates, we stay cozied up at my in-laws for our annual Thanksgiving #2. This is the scene where cousins of all ages run rampant, play with toys, play hide and go seek, and whatever else their little minds can muster up. Each room of the home is louder than the next and people are scattered, talking up their days and plans for the holiday season. The boys are in front of the television, talking football and sometimes cheering louder than the children are laughing. It's a scene that reminds me of my holiday dinners as a child. One that I hold close to my heart and I'm happy that my children are able to share.
After Thanksgiving was put to rest and our hearts were full of gratitude, we drove to our local tree farm to pick out our favorite tree. My daughter immediately loved the first tree she saw and begged for it. But my son, walked away in his oversized rain boots, dragging his outstretched arms across the silky branches. We watched him slow down at some and silently inspect the trees, then carry on until he stopped at just one. One, he said, was the "prettiest tree" he had ever seen. My daughter followed his voice to the tree where she absolutely agreed that it was our tree to come home with us...
I felt like Christmas was just a few days ago. But nonetheless, our tree is finally decorated and the village glows under the colorful Christmas lights. This was the first year where I sat back and allowed them the freedom to do the entire tree and village by themselves. I, of course, strung the lights and arranged the houses so they were accessible to electrical outlets. But, they worked together and in between the laughing and talking, they finished...
And it was beautiful, so beautiful, that I didn't have to go back and rearrange anything.
And when our home was dark and quiet, I sat beside that tree with only it's glow emanating the room. I replayed the day, the week, and even the month over in my head. I thought about family and our days spent laughing. I thought about bedtime and the way both my children persuade me to stay in their rooms, just a little bit longer. The stories they tell. I'm not sure what I did before these little conversations took place. Or the complete randomness and things out of the ordinary. But, what will always remain are the memories of holidays, their love for each other, and these little conversations that seem to linger in the air long after my children have left the room. And if the room is quiet enough, I could hear their laughter and the questions only my daughter would ask. I can hear their smaller voice in between the beats of my heart. And that's where they'll remain, until the quietest hour, so I can replay them again and again...
Wednesday, November 23, 2016
Mid Week Humor: Things kids say...
I was in the kitchen tidying up, when my daughter comes in with a handful of paper materials and asks for help with the tape. I curiously asked what she was doing, as I manipulated the tape in my hand. She replied, "I'm making angel wings for my brother." But before I could respond, I hear her brother yell from the playroom, "I do not want angel wings!" She replies, "don't mind him. He'll love it." "I will not!" comes from the playroom. She shrugs her shoulders and says, "little brothers, am I right?" as she takes the loose tape from my hand and walks away... Motherhood.
The Happy Days Blog
Monday, November 21, 2016
A little winter wonderland...
Our Saturday was a typical weird weather scenario for our area, during this time of the year. It started in the 70s and ended with snow and 29 degrees... You know, like dropping 40 degrees in 6 hours is completely normal. Because apparently, birkenstock sandals and snowboots are supposed to be worn in the same day.
The day time hours were a wonderful 70 degrees with full sunshine. We basked in the outdoors with short sleeve shirts and used the open space as our blank canvas.
The day ended when the sun was just about to set. That's when the dark clouds rolled in and the winds began to swirl. The cold wind kissed off our faces, as if icicles were being thrown at us. We retreated inside to eat dinner, before my husband and I got ourselves ready for our second date night of this year (my in-laws were watching our babies). But, by the time we arrived at my husband's friend's surprise 40th party, it was sleeting and the temperatures already dropped to 33 degrees.
Our drive home was a vision from the movie, Spaceballs; The part where they were driving ludicrous speed. The snow was so thick that we couldn't even see past our headlights, but the angle made it look like we were traveling at lightening speed. And at this time, my phone outdoor temperature read, 29 degrees.
In the morning, I was awoken by my children shrieking once their little eyes saw the outdoor scene. Snow enveloped the grass and trees. About 4 inches of snow had fallen overnight.
So we rushed breakfast and raced for the outdoors to play.
After snuggling them up with their snowsuit attire, they immediately dove into the snow. After not seeing snow since early this year. Luckily for me, this was the first year my tired body was able to only stand at the bottom of our backyard hill to play catcher. Versus, walking the sleds repeatedly up to the top, then running back down before they gave themselves the biggest push.
My children's little legs trekked through the snow, as they climbed the hill for what seemed like the hundredth time. Snow dangled off the tips of their gloves, snow speckled my daughters long ponytail, and my son's cheeks were apple red.
Two and half hours had passed and the snow finally stopped falling on our heads. A snowman was made, hills were sledded, and we even pretended we were The Thundermans throwing snowballs at the evil dark mayhem.
We ended our fun by snuggling around our portable space heater, while watching the new Thundermans and drinking hot chocolate; Giving us time to defrost before lunch.
If Saturday was a glimpse of the joy snow will have on my children, then I say, bring it on winter! We cannot wait to see you.
The day time hours were a wonderful 70 degrees with full sunshine. We basked in the outdoors with short sleeve shirts and used the open space as our blank canvas.
The day ended when the sun was just about to set. That's when the dark clouds rolled in and the winds began to swirl. The cold wind kissed off our faces, as if icicles were being thrown at us. We retreated inside to eat dinner, before my husband and I got ourselves ready for our second date night of this year (my in-laws were watching our babies). But, by the time we arrived at my husband's friend's surprise 40th party, it was sleeting and the temperatures already dropped to 33 degrees.
In the morning, I was awoken by my children shrieking once their little eyes saw the outdoor scene. Snow enveloped the grass and trees. About 4 inches of snow had fallen overnight.
So we rushed breakfast and raced for the outdoors to play.
After snuggling them up with their snowsuit attire, they immediately dove into the snow. After not seeing snow since early this year. Luckily for me, this was the first year my tired body was able to only stand at the bottom of our backyard hill to play catcher. Versus, walking the sleds repeatedly up to the top, then running back down before they gave themselves the biggest push.
(I realize the snow doesn't look that deep here. That's because my husband hasn't cut our grass since the end of August and all the fallen leaves coated the high grass.)
My children's little legs trekked through the snow, as they climbed the hill for what seemed like the hundredth time. Snow dangled off the tips of their gloves, snow speckled my daughters long ponytail, and my son's cheeks were apple red.
Two and half hours had passed and the snow finally stopped falling on our heads. A snowman was made, hills were sledded, and we even pretended we were The Thundermans throwing snowballs at the evil dark mayhem.
We ended our fun by snuggling around our portable space heater, while watching the new Thundermans and drinking hot chocolate; Giving us time to defrost before lunch.
If Saturday was a glimpse of the joy snow will have on my children, then I say, bring it on winter! We cannot wait to see you.
Friday, November 18, 2016
Homeschooling, our way...
In continuation to Monday's post, we concluded our first week of homeschool.
Our district continues to strike and an end doesn't seem to be in sight. But by law, the students have to be back in their classrooms after 30 days. Then, if they choose, the staff can strike again after the New Year.
My brain hurts just thinking about all that...
With that, our Christmas vacation and Easter break will be terminated and students will be in school until the end of June. Not to mention, it'll leave the children scrambling around trying to end the year on a positive passing note. After being away from academics for such a long duration. And, I'm sure the remaining months will be a game of "catch up." As the teachers will have to review everything they already taught to the younger students.
So, as much as I have enjoyed the short structured homeschooling experience and my daughter's receptive ability, I did loosen up by mid week. Not because of problems, but because technically, this is all our holiday breaks and some of summer break wrapped into one. So I want her to be free of school work and have fun during her supposed time off.
Also, we read daily anyways, it's her favorite thing to do. So it's not like we have to sit in a classroom atmosphere for that to happen. But, I now throw in some math as we saunter throughout our days.
But for now, we have been to the park, bike riding, library, bookstore, the farm, went outdoor exploring, walking, and played indoor hide and go seek all during those short winter day light hours...
We are taking advantage of this rare experience of enjoying each others company during the time when the sun is at it's highest point, without being pressed for time.
To breakdown our week...
She was eager and excited to work and really respected me in my educator role. We completed a days worth of work in four hours, included recess and lunch. We did activities from worksheets and played a few games, I thought we were having fun. But, she said I wasn't a fun teacher and the class was boring. I guess that's what you get when your daughter is lucky enough to have such a wonderful, real, teacher. So, I thanked her for her critique, adding, I'm not a teacher and I do have a lot of room to grow.
As much as I love having both of my children with me all day, I still feel a sense of frustration that my daughter won't be allowed to share our holidays at home with her family. The day after Christmas, she is expected to be back at school, with not even a day in between to be allowed the chance to play with new toys, go visiting family, or watch some holiday movies while eating Christmas cookies. But, it's the realization that the state feels they have more rights to your child than you, as the parent, have, that really irks me. That, they think they know what is in their best interest. Then at the same time, they're the ones trying to encourage families to be together more.
It sounds a little oxymoronish to me...
So for now, we'll hunker down and enjoy our time at home with some homeschool thrown in. And we'll patiently wait out the strike, while crossing our fingers it will get resolved in enough time that our holiday breaks won't be conceded.
But until that happens, we'll catch up on The Thundermans and decorate our home for Christmas during the commercial breaks. We'll throw some math problems in between while she skates around my dining room table. We'll read some of her new books we loaned out from the library and we'll even do some science experiments.
So homeschool will still continue, just our own version of it. Equipped with lots of fun and learning, from the new and improved, non boring teacher.
Our district continues to strike and an end doesn't seem to be in sight. But by law, the students have to be back in their classrooms after 30 days. Then, if they choose, the staff can strike again after the New Year.
My brain hurts just thinking about all that...
With that, our Christmas vacation and Easter break will be terminated and students will be in school until the end of June. Not to mention, it'll leave the children scrambling around trying to end the year on a positive passing note. After being away from academics for such a long duration. And, I'm sure the remaining months will be a game of "catch up." As the teachers will have to review everything they already taught to the younger students.
So, as much as I have enjoyed the short structured homeschooling experience and my daughter's receptive ability, I did loosen up by mid week. Not because of problems, but because technically, this is all our holiday breaks and some of summer break wrapped into one. So I want her to be free of school work and have fun during her supposed time off.
Also, we read daily anyways, it's her favorite thing to do. So it's not like we have to sit in a classroom atmosphere for that to happen. But, I now throw in some math as we saunter throughout our days.
But for now, we have been to the park, bike riding, library, bookstore, the farm, went outdoor exploring, walking, and played indoor hide and go seek all during those short winter day light hours...
We are taking advantage of this rare experience of enjoying each others company during the time when the sun is at it's highest point, without being pressed for time.
To breakdown our week...
She was eager and excited to work and really respected me in my educator role. We completed a days worth of work in four hours, included recess and lunch. We did activities from worksheets and played a few games, I thought we were having fun. But, she said I wasn't a fun teacher and the class was boring. I guess that's what you get when your daughter is lucky enough to have such a wonderful, real, teacher. So, I thanked her for her critique, adding, I'm not a teacher and I do have a lot of room to grow.
As much as I love having both of my children with me all day, I still feel a sense of frustration that my daughter won't be allowed to share our holidays at home with her family. The day after Christmas, she is expected to be back at school, with not even a day in between to be allowed the chance to play with new toys, go visiting family, or watch some holiday movies while eating Christmas cookies. But, it's the realization that the state feels they have more rights to your child than you, as the parent, have, that really irks me. That, they think they know what is in their best interest. Then at the same time, they're the ones trying to encourage families to be together more.
It sounds a little oxymoronish to me...
So for now, we'll hunker down and enjoy our time at home with some homeschool thrown in. And we'll patiently wait out the strike, while crossing our fingers it will get resolved in enough time that our holiday breaks won't be conceded.
But until that happens, we'll catch up on The Thundermans and decorate our home for Christmas during the commercial breaks. We'll throw some math problems in between while she skates around my dining room table. We'll read some of her new books we loaned out from the library and we'll even do some science experiments.
So homeschool will still continue, just our own version of it. Equipped with lots of fun and learning, from the new and improved, non boring teacher.
Wednesday, November 16, 2016
Mid Week Humor: Eating your own words.
When shopping with my children, my normal response for them wanting toys or items is, "don't worry, Santa will bring them for you." So yesterday, I ate my own words when I was going to get myself a pack of cupcakes, along with the cookies for my children. As I placed the package in our cart, my son put out his hand to block it and replied, "don't worry mama, Santa will bring those for you." Touche' kid... Touche'... Motherhood.
The Happy Days Blog
Monday, November 14, 2016
A homeschooling opportunity...
Since my daughter started preschool, I silently battled my internal thoughts of wanting to homeschool. She had such a hard time leaving me and I wanted nothing more, but to hold her next to me forever. I wanted her to be sheltered from the other habits she would inevitably learn from her peers. And the whole structure of school itself doesn't resonate well with me.
But the reality is, she is a very social being who gets bored surrounded by the same walls everyday. And sometimes, even mom isn't as exciting to her anymore.
So, school has become a 6.5 hr social gathering for her, even though leaving me in the morning still continues to be a fete. However, she excitedly exits the building chattering away about her day. And making dinner has become our time to talk about all the things she experienced in her hours away from home.
Although, there are still times I bring back up the idea of homeschooling, but as she ages, it's not so much about keeping her securely attached to me, but more for the unschooling side of the education.
However, we are incredibly lucky to have an amazing first grade teacher this year. One who is very open to the individual needs of each child and isn't so focused on structure and control. She allows them the freedom to move about in class and do their work on the floor if that's where they please. She's understanding and compassionate. And her teaching, dulls the flame of the homeschool idea because, I know my daughter is experiencing a taste of unschooling.
Nonetheless, I also know, there probably won't be another teacher like her. So the homeschool flame will remain smoldering until the time is right.
But late Friday, we received final notification that our district will strike this Monday, until further notice. Which brought about an opportunity that I couldn't pass up.
I emailed her teacher, asking about the structure of their day and their main areas of focus. Then, I designed a lesson plan based on their recent homework and the teacher's advice, with worksheets and materials included.
This week, or two, or three, I will take this opportunity and homeschool my daughter.
And we both couldn't be more excited about it...
I sat her down and discussed the idea and that come Monday, we will be doing actual school, not just playing like we usually do. That she would have to respect the fact that I was now the one guiding her through her academic day.
And not just being, plain old mom.
And hopefully, her brother will cooperate too...
So after she was asleep, I tore sheets out of her School Zone First Grade workbook and stapled each section together. I created a schedule and even packed a spare backpack, compete with a folder and pencil case.
So come tomorrow, between the hours of 10:00 a.m-2:00 p.m, we will get a taste of what homeschooling will mean to us. So if eventually that is the avenue she wants to take, we'll be prepared.
*Come Friday's blog post, I'll update how the week went.
But the reality is, she is a very social being who gets bored surrounded by the same walls everyday. And sometimes, even mom isn't as exciting to her anymore.
So, school has become a 6.5 hr social gathering for her, even though leaving me in the morning still continues to be a fete. However, she excitedly exits the building chattering away about her day. And making dinner has become our time to talk about all the things she experienced in her hours away from home.
Although, there are still times I bring back up the idea of homeschooling, but as she ages, it's not so much about keeping her securely attached to me, but more for the unschooling side of the education.
However, we are incredibly lucky to have an amazing first grade teacher this year. One who is very open to the individual needs of each child and isn't so focused on structure and control. She allows them the freedom to move about in class and do their work on the floor if that's where they please. She's understanding and compassionate. And her teaching, dulls the flame of the homeschool idea because, I know my daughter is experiencing a taste of unschooling.
Nonetheless, I also know, there probably won't be another teacher like her. So the homeschool flame will remain smoldering until the time is right.
But late Friday, we received final notification that our district will strike this Monday, until further notice. Which brought about an opportunity that I couldn't pass up.
I emailed her teacher, asking about the structure of their day and their main areas of focus. Then, I designed a lesson plan based on their recent homework and the teacher's advice, with worksheets and materials included.
This week, or two, or three, I will take this opportunity and homeschool my daughter.
And we both couldn't be more excited about it...
I sat her down and discussed the idea and that come Monday, we will be doing actual school, not just playing like we usually do. That she would have to respect the fact that I was now the one guiding her through her academic day.
And not just being, plain old mom.
And hopefully, her brother will cooperate too...
So after she was asleep, I tore sheets out of her School Zone First Grade workbook and stapled each section together. I created a schedule and even packed a spare backpack, compete with a folder and pencil case.
So come tomorrow, between the hours of 10:00 a.m-2:00 p.m, we will get a taste of what homeschooling will mean to us. So if eventually that is the avenue she wants to take, we'll be prepared.
*Come Friday's blog post, I'll update how the week went.
Friday, November 11, 2016
What we should be telling our children about the President...
Since the election, my social media pages have been buzzing from all walks of life. Posts after posts are being shared, some about how to dump trump and others about the good he has to offer. Some people are ecstatic and while others are devastated by the end results. There's very few in between.
But, now that the election has come to a close, I expected people to live what they preach. And I would expect, the people who are protesting in the streets, to act against what they are protesting in the first place.
In my life outside of my blogging world, I'm really into politics. I'm very knowledgeable about current and past events and even into some conspiracies, as I'm open to hear anything and don't only form my opinions based on the mainstream media.
With that, I've never talked politics on here. And I don't plan to. But, what I do want to focus on is providing a different side other than what all the other websites seem to be sharing.
On my blog, I am always talking about peaceful parenting and being kind. I share details of my life that demonstrate a different life outside the norm. One with mutual respect between my children and myself. And the infamous, talking out our problems instead of punishment. But the truth is, it's not just a parenting style. It's a lifestyle. What everyone wants their children to be, starts at home. It starts with how children see their role models act and behave. No outside person is more important than you, the parent.
My children and I live a peaceful life of kindness and all that it encompasses. We go out of our way to help people and I preach understanding and not to use the word hate, or to feel that strong emotion.
Because, hate is learned.
But contrary to popular belief, this presidential campaign didn't cause all this hate and anger in our world. It was already there. It's in the music that plays all around us. It's in all the television shows that bombard our screens. And, the countless negative political ads that played during my children's cartoons during the day. Everywhere you look, hate is spewing from the faucet. This election just gave people an excuse for it to be socially acceptable to fight about.
People are the ones who are pulling away from the light on their own. Children are not being taught to respect people, to love people, and to be kind to people. Because quite frankly, some adults don't either.
So when I see all these posts being shared on social media about, What do we tell our children about the president?
Well, you tell them, he said things he shouldn't have said. He's done things he shouldn't have done. The details don't need to be shared. But hey, he's human and we've all been there. We all had that foot in mouth moment or that moment when something seemed like a good idea at the time, but then listening to it later, made us all cringe. I'd tell them that Donald raised a great family and was a hands on father, despite building an empire. I'd continue to say, that over the years he was in the entertainment business and most of the time, he was portraying a character that the viewers craved. So, none of us really know who he is behind closed doors. I'd also say, sadly the reality is, he's an elite businessman and to get to that level, he stepped on a lot of toes and climbed over a lot of people. So, he has enemies. And enemies always have their own stories. And lastly, I'd tell them that people will always try to say things to bring you down. It doesn't make it right, but it's who THEY are. And we shouldn't judge people based on their poor choices. That's not for us to do. Our role is to talk to our children about what they are seeing around us. Not just with the election, but daily life too. We need to guide them through what their brains are absorbing and steer them on the path you want them on. Constant conversations should unfold. So when they're older and don't have you beside them, holding their hands, they'll know what are just "words" and what is worth listening to.
It all starts at home. Everything you want your children to be, you also have to be. So, it doesn't matter who is the President because, that person doesn't have the influence that mom and dad have. The President isn't the one raising your children or providing the morals and values of day to day.
Children don't see the world the way adults do. They don't judge people based off wealth, status, color, or religion. They base friends off of who is standing the closest to them at recess or who is sitting at their lunch table. So as long as the parents don't talk about their own judgments, children won't even think it.
So in the end, we tell our children that the sun will rise, the birds will chirp, and there will be air to breathe. You tell them they will always be loved by their loved ones. You tell them to always look for the good in people, to be open, and to always listen before assuming. Tell them to accept people for who they are because, you can't change how people act, but only how you react. And you tell them to be the only kind voice that stands against the masses. And finally, you tell your children to build people up and never tear them down.
Because children are always watching and listening... So give them something worth applying.
But, now that the election has come to a close, I expected people to live what they preach. And I would expect, the people who are protesting in the streets, to act against what they are protesting in the first place.
In my life outside of my blogging world, I'm really into politics. I'm very knowledgeable about current and past events and even into some conspiracies, as I'm open to hear anything and don't only form my opinions based on the mainstream media.
With that, I've never talked politics on here. And I don't plan to. But, what I do want to focus on is providing a different side other than what all the other websites seem to be sharing.
On my blog, I am always talking about peaceful parenting and being kind. I share details of my life that demonstrate a different life outside the norm. One with mutual respect between my children and myself. And the infamous, talking out our problems instead of punishment. But the truth is, it's not just a parenting style. It's a lifestyle. What everyone wants their children to be, starts at home. It starts with how children see their role models act and behave. No outside person is more important than you, the parent.
My children and I live a peaceful life of kindness and all that it encompasses. We go out of our way to help people and I preach understanding and not to use the word hate, or to feel that strong emotion.
Because, hate is learned.
But contrary to popular belief, this presidential campaign didn't cause all this hate and anger in our world. It was already there. It's in the music that plays all around us. It's in all the television shows that bombard our screens. And, the countless negative political ads that played during my children's cartoons during the day. Everywhere you look, hate is spewing from the faucet. This election just gave people an excuse for it to be socially acceptable to fight about.
People are the ones who are pulling away from the light on their own. Children are not being taught to respect people, to love people, and to be kind to people. Because quite frankly, some adults don't either.
So when I see all these posts being shared on social media about, What do we tell our children about the president?
Well, you tell them, he said things he shouldn't have said. He's done things he shouldn't have done. The details don't need to be shared. But hey, he's human and we've all been there. We all had that foot in mouth moment or that moment when something seemed like a good idea at the time, but then listening to it later, made us all cringe. I'd tell them that Donald raised a great family and was a hands on father, despite building an empire. I'd continue to say, that over the years he was in the entertainment business and most of the time, he was portraying a character that the viewers craved. So, none of us really know who he is behind closed doors. I'd also say, sadly the reality is, he's an elite businessman and to get to that level, he stepped on a lot of toes and climbed over a lot of people. So, he has enemies. And enemies always have their own stories. And lastly, I'd tell them that people will always try to say things to bring you down. It doesn't make it right, but it's who THEY are. And we shouldn't judge people based on their poor choices. That's not for us to do. Our role is to talk to our children about what they are seeing around us. Not just with the election, but daily life too. We need to guide them through what their brains are absorbing and steer them on the path you want them on. Constant conversations should unfold. So when they're older and don't have you beside them, holding their hands, they'll know what are just "words" and what is worth listening to.
It all starts at home. Everything you want your children to be, you also have to be. So, it doesn't matter who is the President because, that person doesn't have the influence that mom and dad have. The President isn't the one raising your children or providing the morals and values of day to day.
Children don't see the world the way adults do. They don't judge people based off wealth, status, color, or religion. They base friends off of who is standing the closest to them at recess or who is sitting at their lunch table. So as long as the parents don't talk about their own judgments, children won't even think it.
So in the end, we tell our children that the sun will rise, the birds will chirp, and there will be air to breathe. You tell them they will always be loved by their loved ones. You tell them to always look for the good in people, to be open, and to always listen before assuming. Tell them to accept people for who they are because, you can't change how people act, but only how you react. And you tell them to be the only kind voice that stands against the masses. And finally, you tell your children to build people up and never tear them down.
Because children are always watching and listening... So give them something worth applying.
Wednesday, November 9, 2016
Mid Week Humor: Election night...
It was all fun and games watching the election coverage until 5:00 a.m. That is, until the reality of motherhood smacked me in the face at 7:00 a.m and I had breakfast to make and a lunch and snack to pack... Motherhood, regretting my night time decision as soon as my eyes were forced opened.
The Happy Days Blog
Monday, November 7, 2016
Some Fall adventures...
Daylight savings struck our home, just like every person across the Country. Except as a parent, day light savings isn't your best friend who it once was before having children. Day light savings is the friend of those out on the town, cheering on that extra hour of fun. But with parents, that extra hour you once loved, turned into an hour earlier in the morning...
So 6:30 am wake up, now turned into 5:30 am wake up...
Woooopie!!! *said with heavy sarcasm*
Once the sun peered through my white lace curtains and the sounds of children chattering in the hallway about what level they reached on Bugs Bunny Dash, I knew it was early even before looking at the clock.
Within minutes, they were draped over my husband and I, with smiles that only children could have at that hour, and both eager to start the day...
Our morning was slow and sluggish, with couch laying and catching up on past seasons of The Thundermans. But, the sun outside was almost too perfect to ignore. So around lunch time, we changed into play clothes and headed outdoors.
The sun was sitting high above the baron trees and the deep blue sky was cloudless. The air was crisp with a warm tinge and the leaves were a colorful soft blanket beneath our feet. We know the minutes of sunshine quickly tick away at this time of the year and we only have a handful of days that will be this picture perfect.
So we set out to enjoy our time before the sun dipped below the earth, unfortunately, at a much earlier time...
My daughter packed her backpack full of supplies and my son followed suit. She even brought her sketch book, so she could draw pictures of what she saw and write about what she experienced.
My son's backpack was filled with random things like, books, Batman guys, and fake food. In his mind, he was ready... And that's all that counts.
We played a little tag, hide and go seek, searched for an array of colored leaves and pine cones, and pretended we were lost in the woods and had to find clues to escape. Also, my son pretended he was Kid Danger a few times and my daughter, Thunder Girl...
Which helped against the "bad guys" who tried to steal our clues.
Our fall days are closing in. Soon, the air will be cold and the ground, lifeless. Our adventures will be halted until spring and our outdoor play, limited. We will pack away our backpacks and replace them with indoor crafts and night games of indoor hide and go seek. Our outdoor adventures will give way for indoor scavenger hunts and painting sessions... And maybe some more binge watching of family friendly TV...
But until then, we will embark on all the outdoor journeys the sun and warmth will allow. And continue our play, the old fashioned way.
And try to outsmart daylight savings in the process...
So 6:30 am wake up, now turned into 5:30 am wake up...
Woooopie!!! *said with heavy sarcasm*
Once the sun peered through my white lace curtains and the sounds of children chattering in the hallway about what level they reached on Bugs Bunny Dash, I knew it was early even before looking at the clock.
Within minutes, they were draped over my husband and I, with smiles that only children could have at that hour, and both eager to start the day...
Our morning was slow and sluggish, with couch laying and catching up on past seasons of The Thundermans. But, the sun outside was almost too perfect to ignore. So around lunch time, we changed into play clothes and headed outdoors.
The sun was sitting high above the baron trees and the deep blue sky was cloudless. The air was crisp with a warm tinge and the leaves were a colorful soft blanket beneath our feet. We know the minutes of sunshine quickly tick away at this time of the year and we only have a handful of days that will be this picture perfect.
So we set out to enjoy our time before the sun dipped below the earth, unfortunately, at a much earlier time...
My daughter packed her backpack full of supplies and my son followed suit. She even brought her sketch book, so she could draw pictures of what she saw and write about what she experienced.
My son's backpack was filled with random things like, books, Batman guys, and fake food. In his mind, he was ready... And that's all that counts.
We played a little tag, hide and go seek, searched for an array of colored leaves and pine cones, and pretended we were lost in the woods and had to find clues to escape. Also, my son pretended he was Kid Danger a few times and my daughter, Thunder Girl...
Which helped against the "bad guys" who tried to steal our clues.
Our fall days are closing in. Soon, the air will be cold and the ground, lifeless. Our adventures will be halted until spring and our outdoor play, limited. We will pack away our backpacks and replace them with indoor crafts and night games of indoor hide and go seek. Our outdoor adventures will give way for indoor scavenger hunts and painting sessions... And maybe some more binge watching of family friendly TV...
But until then, we will embark on all the outdoor journeys the sun and warmth will allow. And continue our play, the old fashioned way.
And try to outsmart daylight savings in the process...
Friday, November 4, 2016
Is door to door trick or treating becoming a thing of the past?
I could remember being a child and having such anticipation for Halloween. For about a month prior, I would silently scope out all the houses I wanted to hit on Halloween night, when we drove through town. I even had 2-3 costume changes for the big day. And I always had a costume I wore to school and one that I wore out for trick or treating.
I even went trick or treating until I was 17 years old and drove my friends. And the only reason I stopped at 18 years old, was because my then boyfriend was popular and I hid that quirky quality from him.
...Ah, the teenage years...
Our school parade was a big celebration that continued well past the final bell of the day. Our parades weren't just on school grounds, but we also walked down the main street of town. Parents and spectators lined the sides, causing only single lane traffic to pass through.
I could remember rushing dinner as I kept one eye on the outside window, willing the sun to set. It would feel like Christmas eve and the anticipation of the night ahead was almost too much to bare.
Then when it was time, we went to a local development that had about 90% of the houses lit, with well over a 100 houses. Each house was decorated immensely, with every detail thought of. I could remember one of the first houses had a cemetery theme. They even had a hearse and coffin on site and fog across the front yard. It was terrifying. But, it was an awesome conquest each year. So, I remember hiding behind my brother, following his footsteps and we gingerly walked through the grass, frightful of someone jumping up at some point. Which they always did.
Kind of like the houses that had bushes surrounding the porch and you knew someone was waiting behind to jump out.
When I was a child, I remember loving Halloween like Christmas. And it wasn't even about the candy, but more about the going door to door, telling jokes or funny stories, and getting scared in the process. And, the anticipation of what the next house will bring. And, even covering your eyes or laughing so hard because you're tripping over your friends or brother, trying to walk directly behind them without looking.
So when my children reached the age of enjoying Halloween, I was beyond ecstatic to indulge with them. Right down to the eating candy at 9:00 pm while watching Halloween shows and eating candy for breakfast the next day.
Because come on, candy for breakfast is like a Christmas bonus your boss gives you.
But, Halloween isn't celebrated like it once was. There were more dark houses than lit and very few children walked the streets. Us adults, were truly disappointed in the evening. Of course, my children brought back a bag full of candy, so they were content, not knowing what a let down the night really was. Because for them, they don't have anything to compare it to.
From what I have heard from others, it seemed like more and more people are participating in those trunk or treats. And on Halloween night, our local fair grounds had a trick or treating event set up in the lot, which brought in about a 1,000 people.
That explained the dark houses...
...And there were your trick or treaters who once filled the streets, while walking door to door, creating memories and seeking candy.
I almost feel like trick or treating door to door on Halloween will eventually be an old fashioned story that is told to our children. Those stories that spoke of, "the good old days."
But in my household, we're fighting against the trunk or treats. We're keeping it "old fashioned" for as long as there are porch lights lit and doors to be knocked and candy to be had.
Because when my children think of Halloween, I want them to think of the walking, the running through the yards, the anticipation, the laughter in between, and the constant memorization of jokes to tell the next family.
And laughing hysterically when you messed up the joke, after practicing in between.
Not walking around a filled parking lot, like they're buying a black market item from someone's trunk...
**I hope all of you and your families had a great Halloween... What was your experience? Thoughts on this topic? And what did your child/children dress as?
My daughter went as Shimmer from Nickelodeon's Shimmer and Shine and my son was a Police Officer (Commissioner Gordon, from Batman).
I even went trick or treating until I was 17 years old and drove my friends. And the only reason I stopped at 18 years old, was because my then boyfriend was popular and I hid that quirky quality from him.
...Ah, the teenage years...
Our school parade was a big celebration that continued well past the final bell of the day. Our parades weren't just on school grounds, but we also walked down the main street of town. Parents and spectators lined the sides, causing only single lane traffic to pass through.
I could remember rushing dinner as I kept one eye on the outside window, willing the sun to set. It would feel like Christmas eve and the anticipation of the night ahead was almost too much to bare.
Then when it was time, we went to a local development that had about 90% of the houses lit, with well over a 100 houses. Each house was decorated immensely, with every detail thought of. I could remember one of the first houses had a cemetery theme. They even had a hearse and coffin on site and fog across the front yard. It was terrifying. But, it was an awesome conquest each year. So, I remember hiding behind my brother, following his footsteps and we gingerly walked through the grass, frightful of someone jumping up at some point. Which they always did.
Kind of like the houses that had bushes surrounding the porch and you knew someone was waiting behind to jump out.
When I was a child, I remember loving Halloween like Christmas. And it wasn't even about the candy, but more about the going door to door, telling jokes or funny stories, and getting scared in the process. And, the anticipation of what the next house will bring. And, even covering your eyes or laughing so hard because you're tripping over your friends or brother, trying to walk directly behind them without looking.
So when my children reached the age of enjoying Halloween, I was beyond ecstatic to indulge with them. Right down to the eating candy at 9:00 pm while watching Halloween shows and eating candy for breakfast the next day.
Because come on, candy for breakfast is like a Christmas bonus your boss gives you.
But, Halloween isn't celebrated like it once was. There were more dark houses than lit and very few children walked the streets. Us adults, were truly disappointed in the evening. Of course, my children brought back a bag full of candy, so they were content, not knowing what a let down the night really was. Because for them, they don't have anything to compare it to.
From what I have heard from others, it seemed like more and more people are participating in those trunk or treats. And on Halloween night, our local fair grounds had a trick or treating event set up in the lot, which brought in about a 1,000 people.
That explained the dark houses...
...And there were your trick or treaters who once filled the streets, while walking door to door, creating memories and seeking candy.
I almost feel like trick or treating door to door on Halloween will eventually be an old fashioned story that is told to our children. Those stories that spoke of, "the good old days."
But in my household, we're fighting against the trunk or treats. We're keeping it "old fashioned" for as long as there are porch lights lit and doors to be knocked and candy to be had.
Because when my children think of Halloween, I want them to think of the walking, the running through the yards, the anticipation, the laughter in between, and the constant memorization of jokes to tell the next family.
And laughing hysterically when you messed up the joke, after practicing in between.
Not walking around a filled parking lot, like they're buying a black market item from someone's trunk...
**I hope all of you and your families had a great Halloween... What was your experience? Thoughts on this topic? And what did your child/children dress as?
My daughter went as Shimmer from Nickelodeon's Shimmer and Shine and my son was a Police Officer (Commissioner Gordon, from Batman).
Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Mid Week Humor: Halloween Candy
Upon inspection of all the Halloween candy, I was astonished by how many pieces were unsafe and had to be put in the garbage. And by garbage, I mean, separate container for my husband and I to eat while both of our children are sleeping... Motherhood (and apparently Fatherhood too).
The Happy Days Blog
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