Weekend Whims

1. The Universal Language of Parenting: Memes That Speak My Truth

Sometimes, words simply aren’t enough to capture the essence of daily life, especially when you’re navigating the beautiful, chaotic world of parenting. That’s where memes step in, offering a humorous and often eerily accurate reflection of our shared experiences. Currently, two particular memes perfectly encapsulate my entire existence, and I just *had* to share them with you.

First, there’s the now-iconic koala bear meme, gripping onto a tree branch for dear life, eyes wide with a mix of exhaustion and existential dread. Please, tell me I’m not the only parent who sees their soul reflected in that tiny, tenacious marsupial. It’s a visual representation of those days when you’re giving 110%, yet still feel like you’re barely hanging on. The relentless demands, the endless questions, the constant need for snacks – it all accumulates, leaving you in a state of endearing, yet profound, weariness.

And then there’s the permanently exhausted pigeon. If you’ve ever felt like your energy reserves are perpetually drained, leaving you waddling through life with a glazed look in your eyes, then you understand. The reason behind my current state of pigeon-like fatigue is directly linked to the next item on today’s Friday Thoughts agenda. It’s a tale of tiny hooves, endless chores, and an abundance of cuteness that demands constant attention.

2. A Deluge of Delightful, But Demanding, Piglets: Life on the Faux Farm

For those of you who follow my faux farm account on Instagram, you’ll already be familiar with the latest adorable (and exhausting) development: our sweet Kunekune pig momma, Olivia, welcomed a litter of piglets a mere two-and-a-half weeks ago. And let me tell you, they are undeniably the cutest, most captivating creatures you’ll ever lay eyes on. But, oh my goodness, they are also an astonishing amount of work!

Our original, perfectly orchestrated plan was to time Olivia’s litter for when the kids were home from school for the summer. This seemed like a brilliant strategy, ensuring extra hands for the inevitable flurry of tasks that come with new arrivals. However, as any seasoned farmer (or parent, for that matter) knows, the best-laid plans often go awry, especially when dealing with the unpredictable rhythms of nature. The pigs, in their own sweet time, took a little longer to “get the job done,” if you catch my drift. Consequently, these little bundles of joy arrived precisely when school was back in full swing.

So, for the past few weeks, the primary responsibility for these tiny, energetic rascals has largely fallen to me while the children are at school. To say that these “zoomie” piglets, with their endless curiosity and boundless energy, are more than I bargained for would be a significant understatement. Each day brings new adventures and challenges, testing my patience and my ability to multitask.

The journey hasn’t been without its heartbreaking moments. We sadly lost one piglet in the first few days due to a birth defect, a somber reminder of life’s fragility. Another little one has struggled to thrive, requiring constant attention, supplemental feedings, and vigilant monitoring to ensure she’s eating and growing strong. Despite these challenges, their sheer adorableness is a powerful magnet. I confess, I spend a considerable amount of time simply sitting in the pig hut, captivated by their playful antics, unable to tear myself away. There’s a certain magic in observing them tumble and squeal, a simple joy that makes all the hard work worthwhile. #pigsoverpeople, indeed!

Adding another layer to this porcine adventure, three of our children bravely invested their own savings in the adult Kunekune pigs. Their entrepreneurial spirit sparked by the hope of recouping their investment through the sale of future piglets. It’s been a fascinating lesson in economics, responsibility, and the unpredictable nature of animal husbandry for them. This whole experience has truly been an unforgettable adventure for the entire family!

If you’re eager for more adorable piglet content, I highly recommend visiting the PIGLETS highlights on my Instagram. You’ll find a trove of videos and photos showcasing all their charming antics from the past few weeks. A fair warning, though: piglet content is, unexpectedly, highly addictive!

3. Maria: A Story of Courage, Perseverance, and Friendship

Today, I want to share with you a truly remarkable story about an equally remarkable person: my dear friend, Maria. Her journey has been one of the most inspiring experiences of my life, a profound reminder of the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of learning.

Earlier this year, my husband, Brian, came home from work with a poignant question: “Do you still have the reading book we used when the kids were learning to read?” Perplexed, I asked why. He then shared the story of Maria, a sweet and incredibly hard-working colleague who had approached him, bravely admitting she didn’t know how to read and was desperate for resources or help.

Brian spoke of Maria with immense respect. He described her as one of the most diligent employees at their plant, a woman who single-handedly raised five children against incredible odds. He highlighted her intelligence, her quiet kindness, and her innate role as a caretaker for others. Her life, he emphasized, had been challenging in ways that he and I could never fully comprehend, shaped by circumstances that many of us would find insurmountable.

Without hesitation, I retrieved my trusty old reading lesson book for Brian to take to work. But as I handed it to him, a powerful and undeniable desire welled up within me: I felt compelled to personally help Maria learn to read, even though we were, at that point, complete strangers.

After Brian facilitated the initial arrangements at work, Maria and I began meeting almost every morning – four times a week – starting back in May. We embarked on our reading lessons together, a journey that felt both daunting and incredibly rewarding. I harbored doubts about my own teaching abilities, but it turns out, this rather old-fashioned phonics book is just as effective in teaching adults to read as it is in teaching children!

Of course, the true cornerstone of our success has been Maria’s incredible heart and unwavering spirit. Her determination is boundless, her willingness to keep trying relentless, even after years of being told by countless people that she was “stupid” for not being able to read, and that she would “never learn.” She faced down years of stigma and self-doubt with quiet resolve.

Over these past five months, our lessons have become much more than just learning to read. We began each session by simply talking – about life, our families, daily stresses, shared love for food, the antics of teenagers, and everything in between. These conversations built a bridge of friendship and trust, creating a comfortable space where genuine connection blossomed. And then, eventually, we would dive into the reading part. 🙂

I find myself with legitimate tears in my eyes as I type this, reflecting on how Maria has transformed from a student into such a dear friend and a profound inspiration to me. She embodies so much wisdom and grace.

Through her journey, Maria has taught me invaluable lessons. She has shown me that it is unequivocally never too late to learn something new or to bravely attempt something challenging – especially when that challenge involves learning to read in English as a second language, with Spanish as your native tongue. Her gentle spirit has also taught me the profound strength found in vulnerability, reminding me that it’s perfectly okay to cry and express deep emotions. She truly possesses the kindest heart in the entire world.

In an era often dominated by fiery personalities, divisive opinions, and a relentless pursuit of being “the best” at all costs, Maria stands as a beacon of quiet strength. She has taught me that there is an immense, steady power in diligently working hard every single day, carving your path in a world that might not always notice, or reward, your tireless efforts. Her dedication is a testament to inner fortitude.

And perhaps most significantly, she has instilled in me a deeper, more profound gratitude for the opportunities I’ve been afforded in life – opportunities that, all too often, I have unknowingly taken for granted. Witnessing her journey has opened my eyes to the privileges I enjoy.

I vividly remember the first day Maria read her first “real” word. It was ‘mat’. She paused, shook her head in disbelief, and with absolute awe in her voice, kept repeating: “Wow, wow, wow.” She simply couldn’t believe she was actually reading. (That day, I was biting my lip so hard under my mask to keep myself from openly bawling with joy.) Now, just a few months later, she is confidently reading full stories complete with dialogue, intricate plots, and engaging characters. She recently shared with me that now that she can read, she feels as if an entirely new world has been opened up to her, a universe of possibilities and knowledge previously inaccessible.

She recently completed this book about the brave Clara Barton. But to me, Maria is the bravest of all. She has defied circumstances that were overwhelmingly stacked against her, situations that would spell devastation for most of us. And she has navigated these challenges with unwavering integrity, boundless kindness, and endless, relentless hard work. I am truly, profoundly grateful to know her and to call her my friend.

4. Halloween: My Complicated Relationship with the Spooky Season (Confessions of a Hater)

Alright, let’s talk about Halloween. This holiday seems to inspire either fervent adoration or outright disdain, with very little middle ground. So, I have to ask: Are you a Halloween lover or, like me, firmly in the “hater” camp?

Prepare yourselves, because this might come as a shock, cause dismay, or even elicit a gasp of horror from some of you, but I am unequivocally in the latter. I genuinely struggle to find many redeemable qualities in this particular holiday. I’m a self-proclaimed, Verified Halloween Scrooge, and I’m not afraid to admit it. The spooky costumes, the creepy decorations, the emphasis on fright – none of it truly resonates with me. My enthusiasm for All Hallow’s Eve is, shall we say, significantly muted.

There is, however, one notable exception to my Halloween aversion: the food. Specifically, the adorably cutesy, monster-themed treats and festive concoctions. Those, I can get behind. Give me a Frankenstein cookie or a ghost-shaped pizza any day, and my heart (and stomach) will be much happier.

Some years, if I’m feeling particularly ambitious and the stars align, we’ll dive into decorating these fun little spooky houses. Or, for a slightly less labor-intensive option, we’ll pick up a festive kit from Trader Joe’s or Costco. On Halloween night itself, when I’m truly on my A-game, we might even whip up dinner baked inside a pumpkin, a truly autumnal and unique meal, or craft these whimsical mummy dogs and cookies, which are always a hit with the kids.

This leads me to another question for you all: Do you have any fun, unique, or cherished Halloween food traditions in your family? I’d love to hear about them – perhaps you can convert this Scrooge with a truly irresistible recipe!

{P.S. Before anyone gets genuinely worried about my children’s Halloween experience, rest assured: yes, my kids absolutely go trick-or-treating. However, the annual process of finding or creating costumes around our house is… well, it’s very much a “create-your-own” type of charmingly chaotic situation. We embrace the DIY spirit!}

5. The Great Crocs Debate: Are You a Public Wearer? I’ve Gotta Know!

Here’s a lighthearted but surprisingly revealing topic that recently came up in conversation. Someone told me, with complete seriousness, that you can discern a great deal about a person based on whether or not they choose to wear Crocs in public. This got me thinking, and now, my curiosity is piqued to an uncontrollable degree.

So, I absolutely *have* to know: Do you wear Crocs in public? And be honest!

As for me? Yes. Yes, I do. And I do so entirely unashamedly. For years, my kids have sported various colors and styles of Crocs, and while I acknowledged their practical benefits, I never really formed a strong personal opinion about them. They were simply footwear for the children. However, earlier this year, my thoughtful kids surprised me with a pair of my own for Mother’s Day.

And.

Well, I wear them constantly. Everywhere. To the grocery store, running errands, dropping off kids, even just puttering around the house. Their comfort is unparalleled, and their slip-on convenience has officially won me over. I sincerely hope this confession doesn’t jeopardize our friendship! I’ve embraced the comfort revolution, despite any fashion critiques.

Now it’s your turn. Tell me your deepest, darkest, and most unfiltered thoughts about Crocs. Are they a fashion faux pas? A stroke of genius in casual footwear? Or perhaps a guilty pleasure? This is a completely judgment-free zone, so let it all out!

6. Celebrating a Milestone: My Son is Turning 16!

Believe it or not, time truly flies at an astonishing pace. My second son, the one who brings so much laughter and unique character to our family, is turning a remarkable sixteen years old in just one week! Many of you, my long-time readers, have been with us since he was just a lively four-year-old, a fact that still feels utterly insane in the membrane to me. It’s truly incredible to reflect on how much he’s grown and evolved over the years, right before our very eyes.

He has blossomed into a truly hilarious, witty, and exceptionally smart young man. He approaches life with a strong work ethic and a sharp sense of humor. One of his more endearing (and sometimes mischievous) habits is to sneak selfies on my phone during church, particularly while I’m painstakingly playing my way through the hymns on the organ. Those unexpected photos always bring a smile to my face, even if they’re a testament to his teenage ingenuity and ability to multitask (or perhaps, distract himself!).

I have a few special ideas up my sleeve to celebrate his big 16th birthday, but I must remain tight-lipped about them here. Why the secrecy, you ask? Well, thanks to the regular comments left on my blog, I know for a fact that he and his friends often sneak a peek at this space during math class. (Ahem, BOYS, back to work! Your mother knows your secrets.) So, for now, the birthday plans remain a delightful mystery.

However, I would absolutely love to tap into your collective wisdom! Please share any of your favorite, sweet sixteen birthday ideas, traditions, or memorable gifts in the comments below! I’m always looking for fresh inspiration to make these milestones truly unforgettable.

7. Catching Up and Navigating Life’s Unseen Struggles: A Candid Reflection

Now, I want to pivot to something a bit more personal and vulnerable. I don’t often delve into my personal struggles on this platform, preferring to keep these posts generally light and uplifting. However, for me, 2021 has undeniably been a profoundly difficult year. I know, with absolute certainty, that I am not alone in this sentiment. The past couple of years have presented unprecedented challenges and hardships for the entire world, impacting nearly every facet of our collective existence.

For me personally, 2021 has been particularly laden with an accumulation of difficulties, relentless stresses, unexpected challenges, and moments of heartache that have, in many ways, profoundly rocked my very foundation. It’s been a period of deep introspection and, at times, quiet struggle.

I must admit, I wrote and deleted these next few paragraphs a million times. My hesitation stems from a genuine desire for this not to be perceived as a call for attention or a plea for sympathy. Mostly, I just want to acknowledge a crucial truth: online platforms and social media posts, while often inspiring, frequently do an exceptionally good job of masking the complexities of real life and the profound challenges many of us navigate daily. It feels incredibly important to acknowledge that life, and especially mental health, rarely fits into a neat, perfectly pretty little box. The curated snippets we see online often belie a much messier, more authentic reality.

If you, like me, have also experienced a particularly hard year (or even several difficult years), please know, deeply and truly, that you are not alone. There is an immense community of individuals quietly navigating their own storms. I am slowly, and rather stubbornly, learning that it is not only okay, but vital, to admit when I’m not okay. This seemingly simple realization is a monumental step for me, a significant departure from years of internalizing and trying to project an image of unwavering strength.

After a rather awkward experience earlier this year where I was unexpectedly ghosted by a therapist – a setback that was disheartening, to say the least – I am finally feeling brave enough (I think!) to try again. I am committed to finding the right support so I can get some much-needed help sorting through the persistent chaos in my brain and, hopefully, bolster some of my rather puny existing coping skills. It’s a journey, and I’m taking steps, however small.

Thank you for simply being here, for reading, for connecting, and for being such a supportive part of this community. I say “thank you” a lot, but please understand, I truly, deeply mean it every single time.

I am profoundly grateful for each and every one of you who allows me the space to be very, very human, even when society often seems to prize and reward an unsustainable and often misleading façade of perfection. It’s a refreshing and liberating feeling to know that I don’t have to be anything but myself here. And I’m so incredibly grateful that YOU are real and beautifully imperfect, too. That shared authenticity is something I cherish.

Love your guts, my friends. Sending you all warmth and strength.