Raising Happy Kids When You’re a Solo Parent

As a solo parent, did you ever experience headaches raising a bunch of little monsters? A solo parent or single parent is defined as one not living with a spouse or partner, who has most of the day-to-day responsibilities in raising the child or children.

Being a single parent is no easy job especially when you have 4 under your brood and with just enough income for daily needs. Single parenting is not something bad or unfortunate at all as some people view it. Once you’re able to handle the complex issues of money, childcare, and your relationship (if any) with your child's other parent, then single parenting can be a joy. Seeing your brood grow up to be happy kids is worth the effort, and the headaches of course. Here’s what I can share:

Communicate- Talk, listen, share, ask questions, SMS, call, chat, email- call them what you want. What matters most is that you have communications going on with kids anytime of the day. Caring parents take effort in contacting their kids whenever they’re at school, at work, or wherever. Who wouldn’t worry if it’s past 10pm and kid isn’t home yet? When my kids were small, we enjoyed talking at mealtimes. Listening to their school escapades and achievements made us proud parents. I made sure they feel loved through verbal and non- verbal gestures. Being free to communicate with each other is one good way of raising happy kids.

Share interests- Kids and I share the same interests- food, sand, sea, fun, etc. It’s a kind of bonding when you let them prepare their favorite barbecue while you whip up their favorite dessert. And yes, we do that—eat outdoors as in picnic, for instance. Then afterwards each one does her/his share of clearing away the area. At long vacations especially during the Holy Week (for Christians), we gathered round the living room to watch old favorites- movies with moral values. Or during Christmas season when they’re off school, we enjoyed watching funny movies together and laughed our hearts out.

Teach independence- Teach your kids independence at a tender age. As a mom, it was my pride to see my kids when they were 5 years old to bathe or do toileting by themselves. School was a source of excitement as they rose up early to bath. Also, ask your tot courteously but firmly to tidy up his closet or his toy box after playing. You won’t need to remind kids every time once they realize the consequences of not tidying up. Experiencing some degree of independence at a young age gives your child the chances to grow up well-adjusted. Today, my kids are a bit older, the eldest has married, the next a marketing professional, the third a psychology college major and the youngest a 7^th grader. As I look into the past, I thank God when people remark how great kids I have. I feel proud I’ve been raising happy kids.

Do you have a story about raising happy kids? Please share your thoughts.

Bad Hair Day- Don’t Let Me Down

Bad hair day! Have you ever experienced a bad hair day? When you felt your hair was dry, brittle and dull? Is it because the shampoo you were using failed to deliver its promise of soft, shiny hair?
Say goodbye to bad hair day and hello to lovable hair. Nature has afforded us a surefire solution to bad hair days: the egg-coconut milk mixture. 

Here’s how to do it:

·  Beat 1 egg in a bowl (or 2 eggs for long thick hair)

·  Add 3 tablespoon of coconut oil (6T for long thick hair)

·  Mix well; Apply to hair by hand, making sure every strand is coated

·  Let it stand for 20 minutes

·  Add 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar to rinsing water

·  Rinse hair well

·  Towel- dry and comb hair until natural luster shows

If the method worked on my daughters, why not on you? My 2 girls having thick long locks used to suffer from dry hair and flakes! We have tried different brands of shampoo and conditioner but each time, problem resurfaced. Sadly, hair treatment at the salon is very costly. So in desperation, I searched the web for an answer.

With this egg-oil mixture, the hair regains its natural shine and softness, making it easier to comb. You can even finger-comb it. The coconut oil keeps hair moisturized, the proteins in egg encourage growth of healthy hair, and the apple cider, a cleaning agent removes buildup from styling product. Apart from killing bacteria and removing dandruff, apple cider also strengthens the hair shaft, leaving you with soft, shiny strands.

What is hair made up of?

Real human hair is made up of the protein called keratin. Found also in human skin, teeth, fingernails and toenails, keratin is very strong and rigid when thick. But it can be very flexible when very thin. Our hair has natural oils responsible for its texture and a chemical called melanin. This one gives hair fiber its color based on the number, distribution and types of melanin granules.

Our hair is more than just a crowning glory. Hair on the head protects us from the sun’s heat, from ultra- violet radiation. It’s also the primary source of cooling, that is, when sweat evaporates from soaked hair. Just imagine how our hair is exposed to drastic conditions each time we go out to work, to play or even when just staying at home. So it’s our responsibility to keep it healthy all the time.

Today, we now have an option. You need not necessarily buy the priciest conditioners on the market to moisturize and rejuvenate your hair. Bring your hair back to life in a natural way. Don’t let bad hair day put you down!

Have you tried it? If so, please share your experience. Leave a comment.

 

 

  

How to Manage Your Pre-menopause Signs and Symptoms

One of the most disturbing episodes in the lives of women is the menopause period. Though dreaded by many, menopause is not an illness. Contrarily, it is a natural process that sadly enough is undergone by all women without exception.

The peri-menopause or pre-menopause signs and symptoms can occur as early as age 30 or as late as 50. And more often than not, brings forth tremendous changes in your body, sometimes causing confusion and exasperation. But instead of being scared, you have to prepare yourself, mind, body and spirit; so that when the time comes, you may not be overwhelmed.

So how do you prepare yourself for the inevitable?

• Arm yourself with knowledge- Don’t be left in the dark. Research all you can about menopause. The web offers so much information from across so many channels. Update yourself about its causes, symptoms and possible remedies.
• Seek medical help- When you’re starting to feel distressed without any reason at all and gets unbearable, it’s time to talk to your OB-GYN. It’s your doctor who knows best. The years around menopause could somewhat be mysterious as you can’t explain why and how come you experience all sorts of pain and maladies.

• Find natural treatment- There are numerous herbal supplements available in the market today. These have been proven safe and effective in alleviating the most common of symptoms such as migraine, hot flashes and night sweating. You can go to your nearest health shop and ask what these supplements are made of. Certainly, there could be one that’s best for you. If sex becomes a problem because of vaginal dryness with itching and pain, you can try the plant- based vaginal creams.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy- Not all women are suited for HRT. Remember that some years back, such practice was put to a halt as it was proven to increase the risk for cancer and heart illness to menopausal women. To be sure, consult your doctor.

Nonetheless, you maybe relieved to know that not every menopausal woman share the same experience. Studies show that those who don’t feel the disturbing symptoms during the pre-menopause years will most likely enjoy a ‘normal’ menopause that is, without complications. Actual menopause starts when your period has totally been absent for 12 successive months. Severe bleeding, mental depression, insomnia and extreme fatigue are just a few symptoms considered serious enough to disrupt your normal routine.  

What’s important is to stay healthy at all times by eating a well- balanced diet, exercise and cutting off whatever is harmful to your body—alcohol, caffeine, excess sugar/fats/salt. Add calcium and Vitamin D to your diet to keep osteoporosis at bay. As you age, your bone weakens resulting to loss of bone density.

In the end, you might be surprised to know you don’t really need any medication at all for your pre-menopause signs and symptoms.

I’m sure you also have some bits of information to share. Please leave a comment.

Why Young People Are Addicted to Social Media

Do you ever wonder why millions of young people the world over are addicted to social media? Said to be the perfect tool for attracting tech- savvy youth, nothing beats social media as the predominant Internet activity on smartphones today. Studies show that social media represents by far the largest share of online time via smartphones.

With the emergence of smartphones which you could now buy at amazingly affordable prices, you can get instant internet access. Meaning, anyone can just quickly check social sites, emails, and a host of other things, with such an astonishing thin and light hand-held device. Great connectivity!

Undoubtedly, teens and young professionals comprise the biggest sector that patronizes smartphones. They are surprisingly adept at using all forms of mobile technology. Kids have taken social media as an integral part of their digital life. With the apps that encourage the use of Internet, what else can you expect but get status updates, post short comments, do replies, likes, etc.

For those not yet tech- savvy, social media is a two-way street where you get to spread your word and get comments/replies in return. In short, it pays to learn technology so you can communicate socially. Think of being connected to a bigger world in just an instance. Wouldn’t you feel great about meeting new friends from the other side of the globe?

And here’s another interesting thing. There are Messaging apps emerging in Japan and Korea that young people are crazy about. It has now become the leading social networks on the basis of active users. Moreover, young people the world over are turning their attention to these Messaging apps with a variety of features beyond text messaging.

Very much like Facebook, smartphone- based Messaging apps sweeping across North America, Asia and Europe are being used by millions of tech-savvy young people. These apps allow you to create personal profiles, build networks of friends, and even share photos, videos and music.

Additionally, messaging apps have become platforms for other services especially games. Today, experts are now building the same apps for the desktop. Free calls, free texts and free media exchange are the major keys to the popularity of Messaging apps.

These new social media networks have quickly become a favorite as they fit the lifestyle of young people more closely than do traditional social networks on mobile devices. As parents, it’s now our responsibility to give our kids proper guidance on cellphone use.

What do you think? Please share your thoughts.

Island Garden Resort in Pangubatan - An Experience Worth Your Trip

Getting invited to spend a weekend in some new resort always excites the nature lover especially if the resort happens to be in a nearby island. This could mean great fun at much cheaper costs than spending the day at some hotel resort. And it could be doubly exciting if you’re going in the company of well-meaning friends.

When one says ‘island garden resort in Pangubatan’ there are so many things that tickle your mind and those are what makes the trip irresistible. Being tied-up with a 9-6 computer work, a weekend escapade is a breather. From my own experience, here’s what makes such trip exciting:

• Fantastic views by day

To a first-timer, going by sea at day has a come on which you just can’t simply resist. It’s so amazing to see fantastic view of the islets, fishing vessels and passenger ships comfortably sailing at sea. Then as you sail onwards you get a stunning view of the picturesque coastlines of your target island. It’s even more breathtaking to see a mountain peak rendering an awesome background to your left-off point.

From up here, one can see the view of Pearl Farm down below.

This is the Pearl Farm from where we stood grounds...awesome!!!

• Exhilarating scenes by night

Multi-colored lights from structures and vehicles from where you started off will surely delight you no end. Flickering lights from tiny fishing boats and the islets from afar will look like happy fireflies. Twinkling lights from a plane popping out of nowhere adds magic to the experience.

sunset in Pangubatan

The gazeebo at night...terrific!!!

Dinner by the shore

• Fascinating inland travel

Upon disembarking, the string of white-sand resorts lined-up with palm, coconut trees and well- trimmed shrubs will astound you. Just imagine how each establishment makes their facilities competitive just to attract vacationers. And while on the road, you’ll be kept busy reading those endless advertisements on billboards it keeps you feeling alive and kicking. It’s so amusing to read those ads inviting you to come and taste whatever they’re offering. And again the views once you’re on the mountain top will please your heart no end.

After a two-hour land and sea travel you finally reach the newest attraction, a garden resort nestled amongst coconut palms in some secluded area of the island. What immediately greets you is a well-framed steel gate with its name written on top. The design alone gives you a feeling of warm welcome. The clean surrounding is obviously noticeable. Neatly- built native huts and cottages, plus the cool breeze gently caressing your face give an impression of serenity. Only the sound of waves seems to break the sweet silence.

Waiting for our orders at the resto.

Kids were waiting for the "Brave" movie at the resto.

Courteous, hospitable island natives hired as staff usher you quickly into the cozy resto. Garbed in their floral printed outfits, they gladly offer you delectable meals and the ever- refreshing coco juice. Then at nightfall, you get to retire in a nice bed you really could have hours and hours of undisturbed sleep till daybreak. Now, if you’re the type who needs peace and quiet, this island garden resort in Pangubatan is for you. It’s worth the trip!

This is the dorm-type accommodation

In one of the open huts

At the background are the open huts

View my pics and you'll know why the experience is 

worth the trip...

Testing the waters late in the afternoon...so coooool!!!

Early morning view...

Just enjoying the place before bedtime

Refreshing buko treat...for free yan...

After a sumptuous lunch...See the happy faces? They're satisfied...

Enjoying a boat ride early in the morning

Kids delight in the starfish...but they returned them to sea afterwards...

Just testing if the temperature's right

Another beautiful spot in the resort

If you’re now excited to share a similar experience, share your thoughts. 

Caring For Children- What To Do If Your Child Has Fever

Have you ever experienced waking up at night because your child was shaking with high fever? Having a sick child at home is a cause for worry most especially if you’re a solo working parent. Now if you’re the doting mom, of course there’s no better way of making your tot feel at least comfortable than by having yourself at his side. Here are proven practical ways in caring for children when they’re sick:

• Temperature- Anything between 35.5 and 37.5 °C (others put it at 37.0 °C or 98.6 °F) is considered normal body temperature for anyone, young or old. Any change above the normal body temperature is already a fever. Fever is usually caused by infection. But it doesn’t always mean there’s a severe infection if the temperature is a bit higher. Just be around to take his temperature as needed. Also, you really don’t have to worry until you see a doctor. However, if it’s a very young infant who’s sick, bring him straight away to the doctor.

• Fever reliever- Give your kid paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen) to relieve pain and fever. Given at the right time with the right dosage should be enough to bring the fever down in 24 to 48 hours. Give him a sponge bath of water or mild alcohol on the entire body. Change his clothing once he gets sweaty.

• Liquids- Small but frequent sips of water or fresh fruit juice prevent dehydration, a condition that sets in with high temperatures. I remember grandma used to have me drink cool water to lessen body heat during a fever. Also, be sure to have his favorite soup along with an attractive healthy meal. Remember, a feverish kid more often than not lose his appetite so it’s wise to have a colorful meal seasoned according to his taste. Fresh fruits or congee are good snack options. Healthy food gives your tot enough energy to withstand the fever.

• Beddings, fresh air and sun- You’ll make your child feel better with fresh beddings and linens to sleep on. If you’re living in a safe neighborhood, it’s best to have a window open to let fresh air in. Also whenever you can, expose him to early morning sunlight. These will give him enough comfort.

• And of course, top that with a mother’s healing touch. It can help calm your tot down, reduce the pain and stress. It could even help him recover fast, so give him a gentle massage. According to studies, healing touch is a great way to help people feel better physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. You get back the same treatment more or less if you get sick. There are a lot of ways in caring for children during an illness.

Have you any similar experience to add? Please share your thoughts and leave your comment.