by on October 31, 2010 • 2 Comments Links “Bittersweet October. The mellow, messy, leaf-kicking, perfect pause between the opposing miseries of summer and winter.” - Carol Bishop Hipps
by on October 29, 2010 • 34 Comments Personal Growth You I’m excited to bring you the next installment in our Seasons in Parenting series. Last time we talked about raising teenagers. Today we’re sliding clear over to the other side of the spectrum and discussing those sleep-deprived, overwhelmingly-difficult-yet-don’t-blink-or-you’ll-miss-them days of welcoming a newborn into the family. If you’re a parent, you’ve been there — but it’s easy to forget what those early days are like, no matter how often you’ve lived through them. That’s why I’m eager to share with you these words from Tabitha of From Single to Married, a first-time mom to an eight-month-old. She’s not too far past that stage yet. Those of you who are pregnant, or hope to one day be pregnant — her words are especially for you.
Today is my last day of employment. Ever. Okay, maybe I’m being a tad dramatic, but it sure feels like a momentous occasion, because today is the day that I officially become a full-time stay-at-home mom.
If you had told me a couple of years ago that I would soon be at this point, I would have said you were crazy. Certifiable even. Yet here I am: age 38 and a new mother to an eight-month-old baby who is crawling, sitting up, and basically turning my life upside down.
And I figure that if you’re reading this site, you are either a parent or are hoping to be one. I know because that’s where I was last year. And now that I’ve come out on the other side, I thought I’d share five things that I’ve learned about making the transition from “me” to “we.”
by on October 28, 2010 • 5 Comments Links Just a few quick notes today related to my book’s ever-nearing release…
Today I’m featured on The Happiness Project, where I was honored to chat a bit with Gretchen Rubin on her favorite topic — happiness. Head over there and join in the discussion. I’d love to hear some of your answers to the questions she asked me.
While you’re at it, take a look at Gretchen’s book of the same name. It’s a delight, which is not at all ironic. Here’s a quote from the book’s description:
“The Happiness Project is one of the most thoughtful works on happiness to have emerged from the recent explosion of interest in the subject. Rubin weaves together philosophy, scientific research, history, analysis, and real-life experiences as she explains what worked for her—and what didn’t. Her conclusions are sometimes counter-intuitive – for example, she finds that money can buy happiness, when spent correctly – but they resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
“Filled with practical advice, sharp insight, charm, and humor, The Happiness Project manages to be illuminating yet entertaining, profound yet compulsively readable. But The Happiness Project isn’t just an engaging and provocative book. Gretchen’s passion for her subject jumps off the page, and reading a few chapters of this book will inspire you to start your own happiness project.”
I’m also stoked to let you know you can now buy signed copies of my book, Organized Simplicity, directly from me. If that’s your thing. So if it is, pre-order your copy at a limited edition price of $13.50 — that’s 20 percent off. After December 1, the price will be $17. If you’re thinking of gifts for the holidays, don’t wait!
by on October 27, 2010 • 27 Comments Self-Care You 
A priority of mine is to celebrate the winter holidays (Christmas in particular) in a meaningful, calm, and enjoyable way, where I can reflect the season’s purpose.
This was never challenging until when I began having children.
Families that experience the winter months with purpose and peace (not to mention with health and happiness) create and follow a clear, intentional road map.
The 5 D strategy is effective when there are numerous opportunities competing for limited time, and you therefore run the danger of losing the purpose, pleasure, or peace of your days to an over-committed calendar.
by on October 25, 2010 • 116 Comments Kids: Developing Character Your Family I like to start our kiddos early in helping out around the house. Around age two, our kids empty the silverware from the dishwasher, help set the table, pick up their toys, and dust kid-level surfaces around the house. Now at five, Tate is in charge of making her own bed (sometimes with help), folding clothes, putting away her laundry, setting the table, and reshelving her books in the right spot.
Last week she successfully made lunch for the entire family, so maybe I’ve got a new task to add to her repertoire. Hmm.
I like getting kids started early for a few reasons.
I'm Tsh, founder of this blog dedicated to the art & science of living simpler. Founded in 2008, this is an online family of writers exploring what it means to slow down and focus on the important stuff of life. Love a clutter-free home? Absolutely. Still step on LEGO? You betcha. Read more...
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