I realize now that I need a plan of attack for successful blogging. It's difficult to get the "juices" flowing on demand. I image this is a small scale of what real writers experience. I've got to get into the mooood and I've got to figure out exactly how to do it fast in order to reach my blogging goal.
First, I have to make coffee.
Next, I have to be free of distractions and something significant will have to have happened within the last few minutes to have a topic. More realistically, I think I'm going to have to use the small notepad that I already carry around in my purse for ideas. This can eliminate the guess work of topics. It has not been used for that purpose yet. E used it to entertainment herself at a pizza shop once. So Since I do not have a list yet then I'm going to have to squeeze one out.
I'm also discovering that writing requires the same train of thought that computer programming requires. Its actually a lot like computer programming.
Let me explain.
When I first sit down I've got nothing. A complete blank. Then after a minute or so of reading the surrounding code or previous blogs the brain gets in gear. I start typing words similar to .NET variables that I know I will use later so I'll go ahead and initialize them now. Then I'll begin to see a clear path where sentences are flowing and I will have to make a decision of whether this is good enough for a start or if I need to take an alternate path so I'll have to trust my instincts. I may hit a brief road block but I can cut that sentence/piece of code out and move it around until it makes sense. Ahhhhh, now that I have a substantial block of logic, er, text, I'll do a quick proof read. Programming requires frequent...
OK, this is a great example of how detrimental interruptions are. E just asked me to see her princess she made on an IPHONE app and I'm having trouble getting back into the groove. B has just walked over to ask me what I'm doing and is literally standing over my shoulder reading this blog.
...Back to my comparison (while I attempt to block out the B and E conversion behind me), I was starting to describe the debugging process. Proof reading is the debug of writing. I have to read and re-read every line/sentence and dig into them to determine what it can be interpreted as. Then, I will tweak here and there until all the initial bugs are out and the work flows smoothly. As with any piece of code, there WILL be bugs. My writing will NOT be pristine because my mind easily over looks syntax, er, diction since I already know what the text should read. I'll go back and edit as needed but for the most part, I am satisfied and then publish.
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Potty Training Observations... But I'm no Doctor
I had a wonderful idea last night before turning out the lights, as I sometimes do, and it is rather annoying and inconvenient since this sort of thing delays the falling-asleep process. However, it occurred to me that 2 friends of mine subtly (that's a weird word) asked for advise on potty training recently. They both have 3 year old boys and are struggling to motivate their children to take the initiative. One of the moms mentioned she even bought undies in England on a business trip that were AWESOME and that Europe has the best underwear. A light bulb flipped on last night when I realized that I could make AWESOME underwear too! Why not?! I love to sew, especially small projects, and I am a huge advocate for early potty training. This statement is a great 'Segway' into this mornings findings while researching patterns and what makes European panties so AWESOME.
I came across an article of interest. This article was plugged on a huge parenting website with a really big marketing name but I will not use this brand to get exposure. It lead me to the site of the published book with comments and opinions of a urologist suggesting that early potty training is dangerous. I did not disagree with all the content within the article and I actually found the theories within the article enlightening. While the supporting information posted on the book's website were spot on when considering this Doctor's theory, I did not find any correlation and scientifically proven case studies that convinced me in anyway that early potty training is "dangerous".
I am a mother of three girls biologically and one man-child (not mine biologically) so I believe I have some credibility when voicing my opinion on potty training and all three of my biological children were completely independent when it came to recognizing their bodily functions by 26 months of age. Furthermore, E was sitting on the child sized potty as soon as she could walk which was around 9 months. This was completely experimental for me after I purchased a small inspiring book from a used book store for a dollar on early potty training. None of my children experienced UTI's or other dysfunctions as the article I read this morning suggests to be high risk among early trainers. The article also suggests that disposable diapers are a better solution to avoiding bathroom dysfunctions because a toddler is apt to "holding" their excrement because they are busy beings or are too afraid/shy to ask for help while in school/daycare. Keep in mind that what you are reading is strictly my opinion when I suggest that even if a child is pushed into toilet training or they demonstrate motivation on their own at any age, they MUST be monitored! My children could not complete all the tasks correctly as toddlers or preschoolers when taking a trip to the restroom. It is extremely important for a parent to be conscious of their child's functions whether it is timing their urges, taking note of their last trip to the bathroom or helping with hygiene. If a child is in school it is extremely important to ask the caregivers about the child. If the caregiver does not have detailed information then they may not be paying attention. Suggesting that parents keep their children in chemically infuse plastic wrappings (disposable diapers), is enabling parents and caregivers to not pay attention. It is dismissing responsible adults from the responsibility of teaching their child proper bathroom habits. Even if a child does not catch on quickly when beginning toilet training, a parent is not dismissed from the responsibly of persistence and consistency. Just because a toddler knows how to feed himself, a responsible parent will not allow them to monitor their own diets or more realistically, their hunger/thirst urges. Today, I'm sure to tell all my children when it is time to eat, drink, and snack even though they are well past "training". Alarmingly enough, the article talked a lot about constipation and the root reason being a child's delay to address their urges but it did not mention one iota of information on proper diet and whether the children in the case studies consumed vegetables/fruits with fiber, plenty of water etc. Constipation and diet are directly correlated last time I checked with all doctors.
I am a firm believer in consistency even if it is inconvenient. Teaching a child to not give up after an accident is setting a great foundation for independence and confidence. Which is why I feel stronger about early potty training after reading this mornings article. I think cloth diapers are a useful tool for early potty training and provide toddlers motivation to taking the next steps of recognizing their urges. Underpants are a useful tool in conditioning a child of any age to respond to their bodily functions as apposed to ignoring them while disposable diapers whisk moisture away and enable parents to avoid necessary attention to fundamentals. I think making AWESOME underwear will support my beliefs on the potty training topic and encourage the process of potty training consistency by making it fun for parents too. My first prototypes will consist of several sizes and not starting at 3T/4T like most major underwear manufacturers. E was so tiny at 1 year, and still is, that we could not find underwear in her size for running around the house during her early potty training days. I plan to address this issue for encouraged parents and motivated children when taking early potty training head on. I mean no disrespect to my two friends when voicing my opinions and I think the only advice I have to offer them at this point is to be consistent and don't be afraid to clean up a mess.
As with other bright ideas I have just before bed, I tend to start out full-steam but my excuses of raising 4 kids and working 50 hours a week usually get the better of me. Please feel free to inquire about my progress on the topic as a weird form of guilt/support.
I came across an article of interest. This article was plugged on a huge parenting website with a really big marketing name but I will not use this brand to get exposure. It lead me to the site of the published book with comments and opinions of a urologist suggesting that early potty training is dangerous. I did not disagree with all the content within the article and I actually found the theories within the article enlightening. While the supporting information posted on the book's website were spot on when considering this Doctor's theory, I did not find any correlation and scientifically proven case studies that convinced me in anyway that early potty training is "dangerous".
I am a mother of three girls biologically and one man-child (not mine biologically) so I believe I have some credibility when voicing my opinion on potty training and all three of my biological children were completely independent when it came to recognizing their bodily functions by 26 months of age. Furthermore, E was sitting on the child sized potty as soon as she could walk which was around 9 months. This was completely experimental for me after I purchased a small inspiring book from a used book store for a dollar on early potty training. None of my children experienced UTI's or other dysfunctions as the article I read this morning suggests to be high risk among early trainers. The article also suggests that disposable diapers are a better solution to avoiding bathroom dysfunctions because a toddler is apt to "holding" their excrement because they are busy beings or are too afraid/shy to ask for help while in school/daycare. Keep in mind that what you are reading is strictly my opinion when I suggest that even if a child is pushed into toilet training or they demonstrate motivation on their own at any age, they MUST be monitored! My children could not complete all the tasks correctly as toddlers or preschoolers when taking a trip to the restroom. It is extremely important for a parent to be conscious of their child's functions whether it is timing their urges, taking note of their last trip to the bathroom or helping with hygiene. If a child is in school it is extremely important to ask the caregivers about the child. If the caregiver does not have detailed information then they may not be paying attention. Suggesting that parents keep their children in chemically infuse plastic wrappings (disposable diapers), is enabling parents and caregivers to not pay attention. It is dismissing responsible adults from the responsibility of teaching their child proper bathroom habits. Even if a child does not catch on quickly when beginning toilet training, a parent is not dismissed from the responsibly of persistence and consistency. Just because a toddler knows how to feed himself, a responsible parent will not allow them to monitor their own diets or more realistically, their hunger/thirst urges. Today, I'm sure to tell all my children when it is time to eat, drink, and snack even though they are well past "training". Alarmingly enough, the article talked a lot about constipation and the root reason being a child's delay to address their urges but it did not mention one iota of information on proper diet and whether the children in the case studies consumed vegetables/fruits with fiber, plenty of water etc. Constipation and diet are directly correlated last time I checked with all doctors.
I am a firm believer in consistency even if it is inconvenient. Teaching a child to not give up after an accident is setting a great foundation for independence and confidence. Which is why I feel stronger about early potty training after reading this mornings article. I think cloth diapers are a useful tool for early potty training and provide toddlers motivation to taking the next steps of recognizing their urges. Underpants are a useful tool in conditioning a child of any age to respond to their bodily functions as apposed to ignoring them while disposable diapers whisk moisture away and enable parents to avoid necessary attention to fundamentals. I think making AWESOME underwear will support my beliefs on the potty training topic and encourage the process of potty training consistency by making it fun for parents too. My first prototypes will consist of several sizes and not starting at 3T/4T like most major underwear manufacturers. E was so tiny at 1 year, and still is, that we could not find underwear in her size for running around the house during her early potty training days. I plan to address this issue for encouraged parents and motivated children when taking early potty training head on. I mean no disrespect to my two friends when voicing my opinions and I think the only advice I have to offer them at this point is to be consistent and don't be afraid to clean up a mess.
As with other bright ideas I have just before bed, I tend to start out full-steam but my excuses of raising 4 kids and working 50 hours a week usually get the better of me. Please feel free to inquire about my progress on the topic as a weird form of guilt/support.
Friday, August 9, 2013
Things to do next week
Starting next week, G and B will be back at school and E will stay at home with me. Her school is closed in order to prepare for the following week to start the school year which is also the same as G's school. G's mom just moved and he will be at a new school this year, just so you know. 4 kids in four different schools. Again. We had a good run for 2 years. B and E were in the same school one year and then B and G were together last year. You want to know what's the hardest thing about having 4 kids? Keeping up with their studies. Oh, and giving each of them undivided attention. They all have something they want to say (side note).
So next week, while 2 of them are back at school, I'll be at home with the week off from work and will try my best to unwind and run out of things to do. My goal is to be bored. If I'm bored then that means I will be relaxed. If I'm relaxed then that means that my vacation time was time spent well. I foresee me switching gears to stay-at-home-mom mode. 5 days completely transformed from worrying about making software enhancement deadlines, conference calls, emails, and system upgrades to a whole week of mopping, organizing, scrubbing etc. Throw a small demanding child in there and viola, the week is gone. This all sounds familiar. I think I've spent my vacation time this way before...
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Horn on the Cob
E was deep in thought at breakfast yesterday and as I walked past she says,
"how about horn on the cob?" And I pondered that all day. I imagined a short horn, not sharp, but very wide at the base, jutting out from one end of the cob only. You know, like a uni-cow or something. I ultimately decided, as I sat in the orthodontist's office yesterday for 1 hour and 45 min., that it would be really hard for G and B to eat that with braces but it would provide a handy grip instead of the silly little plastic corn-looking do-hickys with prongs.
"how about horn on the cob?" And I pondered that all day. I imagined a short horn, not sharp, but very wide at the base, jutting out from one end of the cob only. You know, like a uni-cow or something. I ultimately decided, as I sat in the orthodontist's office yesterday for 1 hour and 45 min., that it would be really hard for G and B to eat that with braces but it would provide a handy grip instead of the silly little plastic corn-looking do-hickys with prongs.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
I needed some time
It's blogging time again. I don't know how many people will even notice the new post but it doesn't matter, it's for me anyway. I've been wanting to write for a while but didn't have a topic so after reviewing this blog I started some time ago, I've decided to practice my writing here while I decide on what else I want to blog about. Make sense?
The kids are great! G: 15, G: 12, B: 12, E: 3 1/2. They are so big now and still crazy.
G is about to start high school (removed school name here) in 1 week and she is a little nervous but so ready. She planning to study theater, marketing, and has been placed in algebra II with upper class men and I am so proud.
G has been taking bass lessons with a really strange teacher, we'll call him Greg (this is his real name). I find it really hard to follow what he says because he jumps around so much and speaks so fast,
however, he is very entertaining. G is very interested in the making/production of music which we've known since he was little due to his astounding beat boxing skills and drumming.
B is has gone through a couple instruments that she has lost interest in, violin, electric guitar, I'm not sure how find something she will stick with. I guess it doesn't matter. Anything extra curricular is good I suppose. She's really interested in the "Scene" look and Anime. I don't think its a faze. She's a little dark at times, but happy.
E is rounding 4 and I can't sum her up in a paragraph because I'm always trying to savor the moments because she's the last. She is very interesting though. Yesterday Wayland found her in the "Sunshine Corner" (time-out) at pick up time. He brought her home and said, "Should you tell your mom about Sunshine Corner?" She so said no and thought nothing else of it. I came around the corner and asked her about it some more.
She said, "You know about it?"
I said, "well yeah!"
She says, "Don't tell anyone, OK?"
I said, "Well, what did you do?"
"I said, what the hell." she says.
So then Grammy comes over last night and chaos is in the air just before bed of course. She's browsing the internet trying to show me her fav blog House of Tourquoise because she saw roman shades like mine. G and G were jumping around teasing each other. W was washing dishes (which he hates more than anything in the whole world). B was trying to stuff a pillow she just made and I'm trying to clean up and of course you hear E bust out with, "What the hell!" Which was exactly what i was thinking and W yells over the commotion, "E if you cuss again you'll lose a toy. DO NOT CUSS!" I laughed silently and hysterically.
The kids are great! G: 15, G: 12, B: 12, E: 3 1/2. They are so big now and still crazy.
G is about to start high school (removed school name here) in 1 week and she is a little nervous but so ready. She planning to study theater, marketing, and has been placed in algebra II with upper class men and I am so proud.
G has been taking bass lessons with a really strange teacher, we'll call him Greg (this is his real name). I find it really hard to follow what he says because he jumps around so much and speaks so fast,
however, he is very entertaining. G is very interested in the making/production of music which we've known since he was little due to his astounding beat boxing skills and drumming.
B is has gone through a couple instruments that she has lost interest in, violin, electric guitar, I'm not sure how find something she will stick with. I guess it doesn't matter. Anything extra curricular is good I suppose. She's really interested in the "Scene" look and Anime. I don't think its a faze. She's a little dark at times, but happy.
E is rounding 4 and I can't sum her up in a paragraph because I'm always trying to savor the moments because she's the last. She is very interesting though. Yesterday Wayland found her in the "Sunshine Corner" (time-out) at pick up time. He brought her home and said, "Should you tell your mom about Sunshine Corner?" She so said no and thought nothing else of it. I came around the corner and asked her about it some more.
She said, "You know about it?"
I said, "well yeah!"
She says, "Don't tell anyone, OK?"
I said, "Well, what did you do?"
"I said, what the hell." she says.
So then Grammy comes over last night and chaos is in the air just before bed of course. She's browsing the internet trying to show me her fav blog House of Tourquoise because she saw roman shades like mine. G and G were jumping around teasing each other. W was washing dishes (which he hates more than anything in the whole world). B was trying to stuff a pillow she just made and I'm trying to clean up and of course you hear E bust out with, "What the hell!" Which was exactly what i was thinking and W yells over the commotion, "E if you cuss again you'll lose a toy. DO NOT CUSS!" I laughed silently and hysterically.
Monday, February 8, 2010
He's a bear!
We traded Monday night visitation for Wednesday so G could start scouting.
How handsome is he in his uniform! Now we just have to start working on those patches.
How handsome is he in his uniform! Now we just have to start working on those patches.
Monday, February 1, 2010
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