One and Only

Cat is an only child, and now and again we get comments.  “Lucky kid.” folks sometimes comment. “She gets her parents’ attention all to herself.”  And they’re right. Cat definitely enjoys having both of us to herself most of the time. “Poor kid.” they say. “No brothers or sisters to play with.” And they’re right.  … Continue reading “One and Only”

Cheesecake and Screen Time

I want you to imagine something.   Imagine that the Cheesecake Factory decided to have a very special promotion.  For one weekend only, diners are invited to enjoy unlimited cheesecake.  Any variety.   All for just 3.99.  Imagine the insanity that would ensue.  There wouldn’t be crowds, there would be mobs.  Let’s say the restaurant miraculously figured … Continue reading “Cheesecake and Screen Time”

Fireworks: Risk by the Numbers

  Ah, the 4th of July in America. Our special day to celebrate the wonderful freedoms that some of us enjoy. Proud traditions of blowing things up.  Cat is already beginning to thoroughly enjoy the yearly visit to a big tent to go buy large numbers of small explosives with her daddy.  But are they … Continue reading “Fireworks: Risk by the Numbers”

Blocking the Slide

Who is the better parent?  The parent following along and playing with their kid at the playground, or the parent sitting on the bench, staring at their phone, more or less ignoring their child while she climbs and plays? My answer is, of course, I have no idea.  There are far too many variables for … Continue reading “Blocking the Slide”

Conflicting Needs – Mr. Pig’s Party

I was having a rough day.  My husband, Dove, was having to work long hours, leaving me with a greater share of the childcare and housework than usual.  We were getting over being sick. I was not completely sure how I was going to complete everything on my long to-do list for the day.  But … Continue reading “Conflicting Needs – Mr. Pig’s Party”

I teach (if I have to)

Before I studied education, I rarely (if ever) gave any thought to educational philosophy. Teachers teach, students learn.  It’s simple. It’s like a math equation. Teaching equals learning. If I want my child to learn things, someone will need to teach her those things. I never questioned my belief in how it important it is … Continue reading “I teach (if I have to)”