Tag: Motherhood

Happiness, Parenting

How do you like your stories?

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It’s been a long time since I’ve written a blog. I could blame it on COVID but it’s probably just that I ran out of things to say.

Well, I’m happy to report that I’m back – and this time with some stories. I’ve always loved books and some recent encouragement that my voice brings solace propelled me to record some podcasts. These are stories found on Project Gutenberg (Gutenberg.org) – a site with over 60K free eBooks with a focus on older works that are no longer under U.S. copyright. These are children’s stories but they are not limited to children.

For example, my latest addition is “Alice in Wonderland,” written by Lewis Carroll. Though it’s identified as a children’s book, the imagery and adventures that Alice experiences appeals to all ages. So, I invite you, your kids, your parents, and your friends, to check it out and let me know what you think. I’m happy to take requests too – I’ve already received one for “Mark Twain” so that may be up next.

I must thank my sons, Nick and Tony Capra, for their unfailing guidance and support throughout this process. Without their ongoing assistance, advice, and technical mastery, this would never have happened. A special thanks to Kateri Kramer too, for her signature artwork that exemplifies the love and hope I hope these stories bring.

Each week, I’ll add a chapter to the roster. But there are already a few for you to start with – so happy reading – and listening – to you. I hope you enjoy your story today…

Parenting, Self care

Can we do it all?

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SingleMom

I just finished Sheryl Sandberg’s book, “Lean In” which questions traditional gender roles and encourages both men and women to shirk off old expectations. Research has found that children are treated differently based on their gender right from the get go. It’s no wonder that we continue these “roles” into adulthood.

One section of particular interest to me was on the question women have been asking for years: “Can we do it all?”

As a single Mom who never stopped working, I uttered that question more than once. I carried a lot of guilt about not being more involved in school projects, not baking cupcakes for my sons’ Halloween parties, not setting up more playdates, not being there when they came home from school. I also carried a bit of jealousy for the stay-at-home Moms (and Dads) who had the chance to do all of that.

That was a lot to carry and it wasn’t necessary. “The right question is not, ‘Can I do it all?’ but ‘Can I do what’s most important for me and my family?'” 

Photo courtesy of Easy Wingman.

Life lessons, Parenting

Great Expectations

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I’m leaving on a trip to San Fran today. It’s for work but I’ve managed to add in some fun time with a dear friend too. Napa Valley, here I come!

I wanted to spend some quality time with my boys yesterday. I did that thing you’re not supposed to do: had Great Expectations. I imagined us gathered around, playing cards and eating delicious snacks, having a fabulous time. It didn’t quite turn out that way. It wasn’t anyone’s fault, it just didn’t click.

We managed to salvage it in the end with pizza and tickle fights but with the holidays coming up, I will certainly try to keep those expectations down and spirits up.

Happiness, Parenting

The Terrible Teens

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When I first got pregnant, I worried about three things:

– One: How much pain are we talking about?

– Two: What will I feed them since I don’t cook?

– Three: How will I handle the teen years?

The answers were “quite a bit,” “pasta and then you’ll learn more,” and “quite easily.” Maybe my kids are different, or maybe we’re not quite there yet (they’re 12 and 15) but my boys are still really sweet.

Yes, they leave their socks around the house (what’s with that?); yes, they wait till the last minute to do their homework (I usually have to spin my head like in The Exorcist to help them get to it); and yes, they eat constantly. But overall, they’re good boys – smart, wise, resourceful. They’re my IT department, my sages, my little loves. They take part in family meetings and decisions, help with dinner, do their chores (with a bit of reminding), and get really good grades in school.

So if you’re wondering, “Should I take the plunge?” my answer would be an emphatic yes. Look out for the socks though.