January 2010
It's no secret that when a married couple has kids, soon their world revolves around the kids, and the relationship they once had starts to deteriorate. Less and less time is spent focusing on the person that helped you become a family in the first place. Below are seven suggestions that may keep you and your spouse from becoming strangers.
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There have been times in the past when I have grown frustrated with my children... particularly the older one. One could say that I have been curt, gruff, and insensitive. Take what I like to call the "bike riding incidents" for example. They started out well enough, but always ended in me saying something like, "I'm not carrying your bike home, if you want it, you can ride it... or else we'll leave it in the park for someone else to enjoy." While reflecting on my parenting tactics, I had a hard time figuring out why my approach didn't work. Doesn't everyone like their stuff given away, especially when they're frustrated?
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Some days you got it, and others you don't. Today is one of those days that I don't have it. I pride myself on keeping my writing schedule, but for the sake of you, dear readers, I don't want to crank out a post even more lame than usual.
Stay tuned and check back Thursday for "You're going to ________, and you're going to like it!"
photo courtesy of jacorbett70- 2 comments |
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In the wake of the recent events in Haiti , one question keeps popping up in my mind. What would I do in a disaster? Does our family have a plan? My answer, unfortunately, is a resounding no.
However, people seem to be more and more aware that in a disaster, outside aid can often be slow, inadequate, or unable to meet your immediate needs. In October of 2009, the Popular Mechanics cover story was about how to survive various catastrophes. It included inspiring stories of people who met their challenge head on and were prepared for the worst. But it also mentioned the friends and acquaintances of these 'preppers' who weren't so lucky. So with that in mind, I'd like to pose a few questions, and provide a few resources to get you thinking... you never know what may come your way.
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When your child figures out how to get out of his or her crib, what do you do? Do you move them to a toddler bed and give up the cozy confines of a crib? Or do you leave them in their crib, and hope that the novelty of climbing out wears off?
I say leave them in the crib as long as they still fit. The sooner they go to a real bed, the sooner you have to deal with them smearing feces on the wall, messing with the dresser, and coming out of their room.
But couldn't they get hurt climbing out of their crib?
Of course they could! However, my theory is that the first time they climb out will also be their last. So to keep a child in their crib, simply put them back in it. Let me illustrate...
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I focus a lot on my kids at SimpleFather.com, and rightly so since this is after all, a parenting blog. But I'd like to step back, take a few minutes and say be aware.
I know that a new year often signals fresh starts, new beginnings, and wiping the slate clean. However, the fact of the matter is for many, a new year means just another year of heartache, financial troubles, and one year closer to the kids moving out.
So be aware of those around you. If your life couldn't be better, I guarantee there is someone around who needs a little help. Do something significant for them, other than telling them that it'll all be okay.
If your life blows right now, don't be afraid to ask for help. If those around you are truly your friends, they would be honored to help.
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Not so long ago there was a little boy, in a little town. This little boy's parents were always encouraging him to travel down a good, moral, Christian path. Often, the boy didn't even fully know what was going on. The parents would pop in a cassette tape with some fun stories and groovy tunes. Before long, he found himself repeating the songs, and memorizing the stories. The stories told of things like being kind to your siblings, and befriending the bully, because maybe he just needs someone who will really listen. Over time, even though the boy grew older, and the stories slowly slipped from memory, the lessons they taught remained.
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Well, 2009 has flown by and here we are in 2010. If you're new to SimpleFather.com, or you've missed a few posts, listed below are the top 5 posts of 2009 based on how many people commented, as well as a few of my favorites.
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