I find it somewhat perplexing that babies don't come with instruction manuals. I mean, a little digital clock that I got with my subscription to Fast Company even came with a little sheet of directions, printed in many different languages (but not in Pig Latin, unfortunately.) And yet, even though raising a child is probably the most important undertaking a human being could ever be charged with, a microwavable burrito comes with more instructions than a baby. …
Maintain Perspective
Dress to Impress
It’s always funny to see a kid wearing grown-up clothes. Ironically, I find it inspiring when I see adults breaking free from the ‘rules’ of adulthood as they add that hint of playfulness while getting dressed in the morning. What you choose to wear and the accessories that go into your 'look' tell a lot about your personality and who you are. Here are 8 ideas to let people know you are Adultitis-free. For Him: 1. Put your best foot forward. How about some novelty socks peaking out under those dress pants? 2. Come on, save the day! How can you not feel five again when sporting your …
Dog Craziness
Jason's recent blog entry made me livid, as he can attest to after our dinner conversation this evening. I almost spit out my spanish rice. If you haven't read his blog entry about stressed-out dogs, sneak over there now and take a peak. Dog's receiving massages. COME ON! I don't necessarily plan on having a dog in the near future, however I had a dog growing up, Princess. As you can see from the picture, I too, had an issue with treating her like a human (yes, that is a pacifier in her mouth), but I was 10 years old! She was like a doll for me. I would dress her up and treat her literally …
If You Build it, They Will Come
As much as I love that movie, Field of Dreams, I am not going to encourage you to build a baseball field in your backyard in hopes of some mysterious visitors. What I have been thinking about is the importance of building one’s family. Not only is it important for our own well-being and emotional health, it is important for our society and in the communities in which we live. I have to admit, I am often frustrated by the “break-down” of the family in today's households. It seems like people don’t make the time to have dinner together, communicate without having the TV on in the background, …
Don’t Settle
Steve Jobs, the CEO of Apple Computer and Pixar Animation Studios, recently delivered a commencement address at Standford University. I am a die-hard Mac fan, and I think he's one of the most innovative entrprenuers of my generation, so I listen to pretty much anything this guy says. But you don't have to own an iPod to appreciate his words of wisdom: Don't lose faith. I'm convinced that the only thing that kept me going was that I loved what I did. You've got to find what you love. And that is as true for your work as it is for your lovers. …
Today’s Heroes
I believe that full time parents have the hardest jobs out there. (Ok, maybe brain surgeons and soldiers on the front line tie for second place.) I just feel so proud that I know people who have chosen to be full time parents. What a gift to not only their children, but also society as a whole. Notice how I am not using the term “stay-at-home” mom or dad. This is intentional. Because I've heard it so often, my natural inclination is to use that term: “stay-at-home,” however I read this great article today in USA Today that has changed my mind. The article is about a man named Michael …
And That’s One to Grow On
Whether you’re waiting for those sweet strawberries in your garden or those equally sweet abs after months of sit-ups, waiting for something to grow can be hard and sometimes frustrating. When I was little I longed to grow up. I am the youngest of 4 daughters and much of my life has consisted of wishing I was as old as one of my sisters so I could do the things they could do- taking piano lessons, writing in cursive, making a 3 pointer, driving a car, etc. Wanting to be bigger is just part of being little. Unlike my childhood, I pray that today I can “enjoy the journey.” Instead of always …
Don’t Flunk Adulthood
I wonder how many giddy students have tossed their flat hats to the clouds these last few weeks? Finally free! Bring on the “real world!” Free from what? Homework, grueling group projects, evening classes, early classes, iffy dorm food, obnoxious neighbors. Ok, granted, those are all very valid reasons to toss that hat as high as you can, but I am saddened by the false notion that the “real world” is freeing. After all of the hard work of late nights writing papers and cramming, it is very freeing to look at adulthood with hope. No more late nights. I go to work and come home, right? In the …
The Luckiest
Today is my 5th wedding anniversary. It’s hard to believe I have known Kim for over ten years (that’s over a third of my life!). I’m happy to report that things are going well. She still likes going on walks with me, she still laughs at my comic strips, and she still puts up with my Star Wars obsession. I suppose a little extra pressure is exerted on a marriage when your first names have been united by an ampersand and trademarked, but I don’t feel it. Five years have gone by so fast, and it’s been a blast. On one hand, I feel like we’ve really accomplished something (especially in this day …
What Does Love Mean?
You can keep your advanced degrees and philosophical ramblings; no one can match the otherworldly perspective and delightfully lucid insight of children. I got an e-mail today filled with answers given by children to the question, "What does love mean?" Here are some highlights: "Love is when you go out to eat and give somebody most of your French fries without making them give you any of theirs." >> Chrissy - age 6 "Love is when your puppy licks your face even after you left him alone all day." >> Mary Ann - age 4 "Love is like a little old woman and a little old man who …