parents
The boundless love a parent has for their child is matched only by their capacity to embarrass them.
Maternal Instinct
Birth alone does not a mother make. Those maternal feelings of love aren’t instantly there as we’ve seen in the movies. Weepy moms after 2 minutes of movie labor (and spritzed with pure water sweat) hugging and crying on their perfectly clean newborn were all lies. I supposed if movies depicted true births, the human race would have died off by now. After twenty-two hours of labor with no epidural, my son was born; he was cleaned by the nurses, wrapped up, and set on my stomach. I remember looking at him thinking, “So. Hello, you.” And then I told the nurse to get him off me because my stomach hurt from relentless labor.
By Barb Dukeman2 years ago in Families
A Mother's Love
I had just flown in that morning from Washington. ~ My mother’s recovery at the nursing home was slow, but it was still progressing and her health was improving. I felt that the trip I’d planned almost a year ago to see a friend would be ok. Mom was ok with it; my brother and aunt would be able to visit each day. I was at a northeastern tribal art exhibit in Vancouver with my friend John when I got the call.
By Barb Dukeman2 years ago in Families
A Tapestry Woven with Tears and Unexpected Light
Life stretches before us like a sprawling tapestry, meticulously woven with vibrant threads of joy, love, and, inevitably, sorrow. It's during the moments of profound grief, when the world shrinks to the confines of our heartache, that this tapestry reveals its most intricate and poignant patterns. This is the profoundly personal story of how the passing of my parents, two pillars that held my world aloft, unraveled familiar threads and forced me to navigate a desolate landscape of loss.
By Funmilola EA2 years ago in Families
The Challenges of Parenting
Being a parent is a responsibility that can sometimes be romanticized in popular media. Depending on the goal of the writer, it’s not uncommon for parenthood to be depicted as endlessly fulfilling; something that always completes a person. And, to be sure, it can certainly be very fulfilling (depending on the person, of course). However, what these rose-tinted depictions often gloss over is all the hard work being a parent entails.
By Joseph Morgan2 years ago in Families
An Open Letter to the Father I Never Knew - So Close and Yet So Far Away
Dear Dad, Dear . . . not sure what to write here . . . what to call you . . . absent father, maybe? But you have been . . . you are . . . so much less . . . and so much more.
By Donna L. Roberts, PhD (Psych Pstuff)2 years ago in Families
My Mother: The Heartbeat of My World
In the grand symphony of life, there exists a melody so pure, so profound, that it resonates deep within the chambers of the soul. This melody is the love of a mother, a love that knows no bounds and transcends the confines of time and space. For me, my mother is not just a figure in my life; she is my world, my guiding light, and the heartbeat of my existence.From the moment I entered this world, my mother enveloped me in her warmth and love, nurturing me with unwavering devotion and boundless compassion. Her gentle touch and soothing words were my first lullaby, instilling in me a sense of security and belonging that would shape the course of my life.As I grew and began to navigate the complexities of the world, my mother stood by my side, offering sage advice and unwavering support through every triumph and tribulation. Her wisdom, gleaned from a lifetime of experiences, served as a beacon of light in the darkness, guiding me along the path of righteousness and integrity.But beyond her words of wisdom and acts of kindness, it is my mother's unwavering faith in me that has shaped my worldview and instilled within me the confidence to pursue my dreams and aspirations. Her belief in my abilities, even when I faltered and stumbled along the way, gave me the strength to persevere and overcome any obstacle that stood in my path.Yet, perhaps the most profound aspect of my mother's love is her selflessness and sacrifice. Day in and day out, she pours her heart and soul into caring for our family, putting our needs above her own without hesitation or complaint. Her love knows no bounds, extending far beyond the confines of blood ties to encompass all who cross her path.In times of joy, my mother's laughter rings out like music, filling our home with warmth and happiness. In times of sorrow, her embrace offers solace and comfort, reminding me that I am never alone in my struggles. Her love is a constant presence in my life, a source of strength and inspiration that fills me with gratitude and humility.As I reflect on the countless ways my mother has shaped my life, I am reminded of the profound impact she has had on the person I am today. Her love has taught me the importance of kindness, compassion, and empathy, instilling within me a deep sense of empathy and understanding for others.In a world often characterized by chaos and uncertainty, my mother's love remains a beacon of hope and stability, grounding me in times of turmoil and guiding me towards a brighter tomorrow. She is not just my mother; she is my confidante, my mentor, and my dearest friend.As I journey through life, I carry with me the lessons learned and the memories cherished, forever grateful for the immeasurable gift of my mother's love. For in her embrace, I find solace, in her guidance, I find wisdom, and in her love, I find the true essence of what it means to be cherished and adored.My mother is not just my world; she is the beating heart that sustains me, the light that guides me, and the love that fills me with boundless joy and gratitude. Forever and always, she will be the cornerstone of my existence, the embodiment of everything good and pure in this world.My mother is not just my world; she is the beating heart that sustains me, the light that guides me, and the love that fills me with boundless joy and gratitude. Forever and always, she will be my rock, my anchor, and my greatest source of inspiration.
By Jan Buhroo2 years ago in Families
Exploring Love Through the Eyes of a Father
Love, an emotion so complex and yet so beautifully simple, weaves its way through the tapestry of our lives, leaving an indelible mark on our hearts and souls. One of the most profound manifestations of love can be found in the bond between a father and his child. It is a relationship built on trust, nurturing, and unwavering devotion, a bond that transcends time and space.In the journey of fatherhood, love takes on many forms, evolving and deepening with each passing moment. From the first flutter of anticipation at the news of impending fatherhood to the tender embrace of a child's laughter echoing through the halls of a home, love permeates every aspect of the father-child relationship.For many fathers, the love they feel for their children is both a source of boundless joy and profound responsibility. It is a love that inspires them to strive for greatness, to be the best possible version of themselves for the sake of their children. Whether it's working long hours to provide for their family or offering a shoulder to cry on in times of need, fathers embody the essence of unconditional love in its purest form.But perhaps nowhere is the depth of a father's love more evident than in the silent sacrifices he makes for the sake of his children. From giving up his own dreams and aspirations to ensure their happiness to setting aside his own needs and desires to put their well-being first, a father's love knows no bounds.As children grow and embark on their own journeys through life, the love of a father serves as a steady anchor, a guiding light in the darkness. It is a love that offers unwavering support and encouragement, even in the face of adversity. Through triumphs and tribulations alike, fathers stand by their children, offering words of wisdom and a comforting presence to help them navigate the complexities of the world.Yet, it is not only in the moments of triumph that the depth of a father's love is revealed, but also in moments of vulnerability and weakness. It is in the gentle touch of a hand and the reassuring words spoken in times of doubt that fathers demonstrate their unwavering commitment to their children, offering them solace and strength when they need it most.For many, the love of a father is a source of inspiration, a beacon of hope that illuminates the darkest of days. It is a love that transcends words, expressed through simple acts of kindness and selflessness that leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who receive it.In the end, the love of a father is a testament to the power of unconditional love, a love that knows no bounds and endures through the passage of time. It is a love that shapes us, molds us, and ultimately helps us become the best possible versions of ourselves.As we celebrate the profound bond between fathers and their children, let us take a moment to reflect on the immeasurable impact of their love. For in the embrace of a father's arms, we find comfort, in the wisdom of his words, we find guidance, and in the depth of his love, we find the true essence of what it means to be cherished and adoredIn the intricate tapestry of human relationships, few bonds rival the depth and significance of the connection between a father and his child. This timeless bond, forged in the crucible of shared experiences and unconditional love, serves as the cornerstone of countless narratives of love, sacrifice, and resilience.At the heart of this bond lies a profound sense of responsibility and devotion, as fathers strive to provide for and protect their children in a world fraught with uncertainty and challenges. From the moment a child enters the world, a father's love envelops them like a warm embrace, guiding them through the trials and triumphs of life with unwavering support and encouragement..
By Jan Buhroo2 years ago in Families
Echoes of Heritage
tlesofer In the quaint village of Eldoria, nestled between rolling hills and verdant meadows, the tale of the Montero family began. It was a story of resilience, of dreams woven from threads of hope and determination. At its heart stood Sofia Montero, a woman whose journey from a distant land to the shores of a new world ignited the flame of ambition within her descendants.
By Emmanuel ALOHAN2 years ago in Families
Pregnant Women Deserve Only the Very Best
Nine months of pregnancy is not that easy for any woman. Being pregnant requires having that extra amount of energy, patience, and endurance for this most demanding of human female experiences. Extra care must be taken in caring for one's self which includes following the diet and making the environment as conducive as possible for a healthy pregnancy.
By RAJEEV VERMA2 years ago in Families
Pinky Gonzalez
Bull O'Bangles and Pinky Gonzalez had been inseparable for years after being crammed into backpacks for show and tell, forced to go on bumpy road trips whilst sitting dizzily on the dashboard all the way to Granma's, whimsically abandoned in various playgrounds, restaurants, at sleepovers and even stuffed in raincoat pockets for days. Granma once suggested they both needed a good washing but the small proprietors of these two resisted, deeply concerned that the precious pair might be damaged in some way. They had been to several countries, to the beach, sat in the front of shopping carts in the grocery store and even been to the cinema. Let's just say they were well seasoned and their attachment grew even stronger from an extremely tragic and scandalous event. The newspapers were supposedly notified but hesitated to print anything as, well, they weren't real animals. Bull O'Bangles felt quite real and although he was not certain if he were a guinea pig or perhaps a large mouse he knew that he had emotions, strong ones that is, and Pinky Gonzalez, well there was no doubt he was a pig who loved Bull unconditionally. The family was packing for a flight overseas and for a good amount of time the pair was parted being that they were in separate kiddo backpacks. Bull was in a Dora the Explorer backpack peeking out from the mostly zipped outer pocket for air; Pinky was inside a Chi-Chi Chihuahua purse with lip balm and crayons then pushed further down into the clutter within a Buzz Lightyear backpack with one child's mostly unnecessary items, (yet highly necessary for them in order to remain occupied and well behaved on the flight). Their parents led them aboard the airplane with strong hands on their shoulders, fastened kiddo one and kiddo two in their seats and took their bags and put them in unreachable compartments for take-off. The engines roared and the kiddos got chewing gum so their ears wouldn't pop; this was always the best part of starting a trip abroad. Now in the compartments above Pinky squealed as only a piglet can do and called for Bull. Bull could hear Pinky but he'd never been able to reply to anyone; he was able to pretend to eat mozzarella cheese sticks and sip through a straw when presented at the breakfast table however. The mother would quickly dab his mouth with a dishcloth when kiddo one and two were brushing their teeth and he was always much appreciative of her thoughtfulness. He hated being slung out onto the teacher's desk with cheesy breath and apple juice stains on his belly for all to observe when kiddo one had him taken away by a substitute teacher during mathematics. So, anyway, the flight reaches it's proper course and the seat belt sign is turned off; the wiggly kiddos screech for Bull and Pinky as the long armed father takes the backpacks down for the rambunctious whippersnappers. The mother sips a Bloody Mary and the father takes a beer and the kids are given pretzel sticks. Bull is relieved to see Pinky and they both fake gobbling down pretzels for the wee ones, winking at one another and smiling in the way only real stuffed critters can. At their seats the parents tune the kiddos into a long Disney film and soon they nod off. The parents relax hand in hand and catch a little shut eye, too. Upon waking both rapscallions frantically yell out that they need to use the toilet, both are scared to go alone so each parent takes one of the screaming small humans to the facilities. In doing so, Pinky falls down from the seat of kiddo two's and then rolls backwards several aisles. He lands at the foot of a serious looking gentleman who kicks him away without hesitation. Pinky squeals again but Bull is too far away now to hear him. When the family regains their seating meals are served and everyone is very hungry, in fact they are all so hungry that no one notices Pinky is not near. After eating the kiddos are given two new drawing pads and colourful markers that smell like berries and fruit. They occupy themselves for a good while and then nod off to sleep again. After seven hours Pinky was picked up by a flight attendant and put on the seat of another young child where it appeared he most likely would have fallen from. This child was happy to have something new but Pinky was very, very scared. This little weirdo was yanking on his ears, bashing him against the back of his brother and pretending to throw Pinky out the window. The seatbelt sign came back on and all were preparing to land. The father asked for the backpacks and the mother scrambled to stuff everything that had sprung out back into their places. The kiddos giggled and wiggled and above Bull O'Bangles cried. He knew he had no power to save his best friend and certainly no way to learn to talk so quickly. The family dismounted the aircraft and stood in long lines to go through customs. It was there, when a metal slinky set off the security alarm that the Buzz Lightyear bags contents were emptied and the Chi-Chi Chihuahua purse was opened and Pinky was noted as missing. The kiddos who were loudly freaking out and the parents, too knew his importance. They found a bench and went through the Dora the Explorer backpack and Bull lay solemnly, alone and frightened. Kiddo one and Kiddo two began to fight over Bull and so the parents took him away and the mother stuffed him in her gigantic purse and although weary, he felt much safer. The kiddos were sobbing now as they made their way to luggage pick up. They held each other and called out his name with quivering lips, Piinnkkyyyy! Oh man, this was not going to be a fun start to the trip for anyone now. The mother in desperation went to the lost and found area, no toys there. She spoke to an airline employee who said they weren't allowed back inside the airplane to have a look, she even looked in gift shops for any stuffed pig that might look a wee bit like Pinky Gonzalez with no luck. After retrieving their bags the father went to pick up the families rental car; as he was standing in cue the most obnoxious two kids were fighting over something in the very front of the line, slowing down the entire procedure for securing their car. Finally, a parent of the two grabbed what they were fighting over and it went up in the air then landed near him. Stunned he quickly jumped out of cue and grabbed the one and only Pinky Gonzalez! The wild boy's father said something out of his own desperation "it's just something they found on our flight, can you give it back to them?" Pinky's father stood his ground and told the his own kiddos story. He gave them both some coins from his pocket and said they were heroes. When he pulled up in the rental car to load up the baggage and collect the jetlagged family Pinky squealed in delight from the dashboard when he saw the mother approach the front door. Look who I found! The father grinned as the family all cried in undeniable delight. The father told the kiddos Pinky was thinking ahead and had gone on a bold adventure to pick out their rental car. Bull joined him on the dashboard and they snuggled closely, winking and wagging their real tails.
By ROCK aka Andrea Polla (Simmons)2 years ago in Families
