Monday, October 26, 2009

Memories

As another holiday approaches (Halloween) I remember lovingly of Halloween pasts. There was the year my son wanted to be a six armed monster, my daughter a bumblebee (with a broken arm) and still another costume request of batman (before you could just buy batman costumes). I often wondered why MY children never wanted to be a witch or ghost or something easy to make. While moaning and groaning I would sit down figure out and create the costumes of their wishes. The holiday was a huge discomfort to me. But my children enjoyed the role playing in whatever character they chose to be for the year. Some costumes where handed down so many family members and friends could use them. And I find I really did like the challenge of yet 4 more costume creations! It was fun to plan and construct with each child looking on as the director of their fantasy world that I could put into reality.
As I look back, I wish I had embraced the creativity of both my children and myself with more love. The memories of those special Halloweens are precious. I know my kids loved them. The pictures of bright smiles tell the story. I’m glad I took the effort to create what was displayed in their minds. Memories of a happy childhood are but one piece of life I can give them! So go and create those memories with YOUR children—and stop grumbling!

Monday, October 19, 2009

Parenting Tool Box

I did a workshop last weekend on equipping your Parent Toolbox. No matter how many times I do these workshops, I always learn something. We talked alot about education, support and systems a parent needs to be the best they can be but the most important subject we touched on was on self care. Parents usually make this an 'if-I-can-find-time' option. When we talked seriously about how important it is to be at our best when parenting ---- self-care moves up the priortiy ladder in a hurry. We had a lively discussion on making time to reenergize yourself. With a little thought and planning we can all figure out a way to get an hour to do something we love. One parent talked about how much she missed being able to dance as she used to. The creative energy it stirred up so energized her. While the mundane daily tasks of being a mom of 3 drained her, an hour of dancing refueled her. I could see the joy in her face as she talked about this activity. The group brainstormed ways to clear an hour and in the end she found at least 4-5 options for freeing some time that she was going to try. So what do you do to replenish the energy that parenting takes? Find time this week for something creative that you can look forward to! And let me know what it is!