Recognizing a “Dad” Worthy of Celebration on Father’s Day

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In an effort to celebrate a “Father’s Day” for a person worthy of the title “dad,” I decided to break tradition and take my husband somewhere new to enjoy a brunch fit for a king. Founding Farmers, that our daughter Quinn, mistakenly and jokingly called “Founding Fathers,” was well received.

What makes this place special is everything is made in-house from the bread to the beverages, and local farmers contribute. It made me think about the relationship between my husband and daughter. It’s naturally organic and something so authentic about their connection. Admittedly, I do feel that their father/daughter relationship is not necessarily better but different than our mother/daughter relationship. They have something special that cannot be recreated: a strong bond. For that I am grateful.

Happy Father’s Day to all of the fathers, fathers-to-be, like a father, uncles, pop-pops, etc. This is your special day!

All the best,

Tanya

Summer Break Fun with My Mini Me: Just Like Riding a Bike!

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Instead of going to camp or just hanging around the house for summer break, my daughter prefers to spend time doing activities together 🥰. I too love having more time together and am pleased that my tween still looks forward to hanging out with me.

Today’s summer break fun was taking her brand new bike out for a spin on a bike trail. Transitioning from a dirt bike with foot brakes to a mountain bike with hand brakes went smoothly for her. We’re thinking next time that we’ll have a picnic after the bike ride and to maybe feed the geese or ducks.

Here’s to a fun-filled summer break!

All the best,

Tanya

Hanging Out at the Mall

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It’s been a while since I’ve just gone to the mall to just “hang out.” But it’s on Quinn’s list of summer activities, so I had to oblige 😉. Plus we got to twin with our Care Bear shirts, one of my favorite cartoons when I was a kid, and hang out with my bestie.

Of course, Quinn got a mini shopping spree out of the excursion too! 😅🤗

Alll the best,

Tanya

Consistency, Discipline and Hard Work: Preaching to the Choir… or Orchestra 😉

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Yesterday evening was a proud moment not just for my fifth grader but for me. It was the spring orchestra concert, and out of six rows of violin players she continues to flourish in the first row. While this too makes me proud, seeing her remain disciplined and practice consistently without me constantly encouraging or admonishing her to do so is what truly makes me proud.

Proud Parent Moment

Her hard work is paying off, and I love the analogy that comes with her being a part of the school orchestra. While her individual role is significant, contributing effectively to the group of violinists, bassists and cellists allows them all to make beautiful music.

All the best,

Tanya

Having a Happy 12th Mommyvserary!

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Twelve years ago my life changed for the better when I became a mother. Though it’s been a joy watching my daughter grow and develop into a lovely young lady, I’ve taken pleasure in knowing that I too am growing as a person in a positive way while on the journey of motherhood. I try to model confidence, strength and love while teaching the importance of patience, determination and kindness through my actions.

While I’ve certainly had done missteps along the way and am not a perfect mom, I am grateful to gain so much wisdom, strength and courage as Quinn’s mom and to be showered with her love.

All the best,

Tanya

The Happiness of Celebrating My Daughter’s Birthday

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Something I enjoy more than celebrating my own birthday is celebrating Quinn’s. We had a wonderful weekend together with her friend and our family, and seeing her happy and one year older brings me so much joy. 🥰🥳. Read more @mommysbabysteps.com . #mommysbabysteps #motherdaughterbond #birthday #fun #familytogetherness #familyfun #birthdayweekend #love

Motherhood: Hardly a “Piece of Cake,” But a Pleasure Baking it for My Daughter

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I’ve heard people say motherhood is not a piece of cake. While I agree wholeheartedly with this statement, especially when the “cake” doesn’t quite turn out as I hoped, I live for the moments when everything from the selection of ingredients, process of baking and feeling the appreciation and love from the person for whom I am baking comes together.

This year, my now 11 year old requested for me to bake her a cake instead of getting one from the bakery. Even though this tends to be a busy time for me with grading end of the semester, I was happy to fulfill Quinn’s birthday wish.

In her thoughtfulness, she said that she was okay with a simple design, but after giving it some thought, I decided to add a bit more color and flair to represent her personality. Upon seeing her birthday cake, her eyes widened, and she ran over and gave me a huge hug.

She repeatedly told me that she loved her birthday cake and thanked me for taking the time to make it and how it made her feel special. She even told me that I should open my own bakery which put a huge smile on my face.

No, motherhood is not a piece of cake. There may even be times where Quinn is unhappy with me or something that I’m making her do as her mother, but I have a feeling that baking her a birthday cake is a memory that will remain with her well into adulthood.

All the best,

Tanya