Couldn't Choose

Why Children Need More Freedom

"Keep in mind that it is only when you feel you have the legitimate right to say no that you can say yes with utmost certainty, sincerity, and enthusiasm." taken from Today's Daily Om, "Finding Freedom in NO" (read all of it here)

Wise Reflections from Wild and Precious Ren

I just had to share this wonderful post from fellow unschooler, Ren.

Wild and precious....
A one-way ticket to the grave. That's what we all have. I wrote about it at one of my unschooling lists and then the thought really settled in. Parents of younger children often worry about college, worry about what their children are learning, worry, worry. I understand those heartstrings being pulled so tight you want everything to be perfect for your child. I do.

But I no longer relate to the worry. I no longer understand why college matters so much to some people or judging someone on the kind of job they choose to hold. I don't care if my child makes good money or chooses to drive or not. We've got a one-way pass to the grave people. A pass that can be re-called at any time. In the words of Mary Oliver; "Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?

(Continue reading at Tea with Ren)

Friday Fill-in

1. I have a history of self-sabotage.

2. The answer is something I wish I knew.

3. I'm eating (or recently ate) peanut butter and jelly on whole wheat toast.

4. I really would like to live my life on the road (for a little while, anyway).

5. So that's it, that's your final decision?

6. Something IS definitely better than nothing!

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to making some yummy yellow split-pea soup. Tomorrow my plans include going to Stitch Rock, and Sunday I want to go with my husband and kids to see Zombieland!

Where I'm From

I am from 70's sitcoms, from Popsicles and swingsets.

I am from the cheery pink bedroom with daisy wallpaper, infused with Tinkerbell perfume.

I am from the lilac bushes with their heart shaped leaves and the weeping willow tree that

perpetually shed it's branches.

I am from Sunday pasta and perfectionism, from Judy and Florence and Irma.

I am from the cleaners and the gardeners.

From "You're so lucky," and "Eat something. You'll feel better."

I am from the pure white communion dress and veil, the converted Catholic mother and agnostic grandmother. I am from "God is love."

I'm from Portland, Maine and the hardy New Englanders and the Polish Pennsylvanians, pressure-cooked vegetable and peirogis. From the grandmother who walked miles to work in the shoe factory, the mother who walked as far to bring her an umbrella on rainy days, and the grandmother who worked at Grant's and played Yahtzee until the wee hours of the morning with her mother.

I am from the black and white photos and tintypes in my grandmother's attic. I am from the scrapbooks and photos waiting in my bedroom. I am from the boxes of momentos and cards tucked in my closets. I am from the poems and journals from my youth that are hidden safely away.

If you want to share your story, the template is here.

Friday Fill-in

1. That's a union that's meant to be.

2. Hey all you friends/family visiting Florida; I'm over here!

3. The possibilities include: bagels, waffles, pancakes, eggs, cereal, and hotpockets.

4. Beef stew is one of my favorite cool day recipes.

5. How will you know if you don't ask?

6. If a hurricane passes through, you're guaranteed big winds and a stormy sky.

7. And as for the weekend, tonight I'm looking forward to being packed and ready for another trip. Tomorrow my plans include flying to Portland, ME and on Sunday I want to start my transformation at Canyon Ranch!