Having a Happy 12th Mommyvserary!

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

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

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

Art of Brick: Building a Foundation of Fun!

My daughter and I love going to the Franklin Institute, not just because our last name is the same, but we love their special exhibits. Today was the beginning of the Art of Brick with fabulous and intricate displays made of legos. I was in awe. Quinn and her bestie loved the Lego portraits, and I couldn’t get enough of the three dimensional displays.

It brought back childhood memories for me as I spelled my name and made a creation in the building section. Also, seeing Quinn and her best friend built a tower made me think about the foundation of our relationship. I’m grateful for outings that are not only fun but meaningful while giving us both lasting memories.

All the best,

Tanya

Cue the Violins: My Daughter’s Passion is Music to My Ears

Usually I like to relax and have a low key evening the night before the first day of teaching a new semester, but my daughter’s spring concert started at 7pm with a 6:15pm call time, and I wouldn’t miss it for the world.

Can Can Performance

Quinn, along with several fifth and sixth graders came ready to play some memorable music on their violins, violas and cellos. Though they’re all at different phases in the learning process, the audience cheered for them all. I, of course, cheered proudly as Quinn sat at first chair in her section playing Can-Can, Funny Fiddlin’ and a few other songs.

Next up is her band concert next week, and I can’t wait!

All the best,

Tanya