tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87594965898084287152024-03-19T04:51:07.714+01:00Continuum MomThe Continuum Concept in our modern worldContinuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.comBlogger66125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-872509828920181562016-08-25T13:15:00.003+02:002016-08-25T13:21:40.366+02:00Expectations while being in the lead<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilI3GooLgYh636hwGRXDvBqN2gao2Mu5yPzQnSLwm01lVeggWvCcUoEDZwepwUTqGn8Xuhr0ukC1UuM4hlUhZ3ww5C7Qvs-_b7GGBvOzZpME73y9miIUxoaE6q7icvPDzc9ce4llp2kOY/s1600/DSC05601.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilI3GooLgYh636hwGRXDvBqN2gao2Mu5yPzQnSLwm01lVeggWvCcUoEDZwepwUTqGn8Xuhr0ukC1UuM4hlUhZ3ww5C7Qvs-_b7GGBvOzZpME73y9miIUxoaE6q7icvPDzc9ce4llp2kOY/s320/DSC05601.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div>
<div>
I realized something today when I was asking my daughter to
come to me to get her hair brushed:</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<b>I did not actually expect my request
to be carried out! </b></div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
I did not REALLY expect things to work. I kind of
expected her to stay where she is. Which is what she did. Ha ha. I am
usually asking three or four times, getting a little more irritated with
each time, and then she will usually come to me. <br />
<br />
I am doing my
best to really respect her and her boundaries, while keeping good care
of her at the same time (as in brushing hair, brushing teeth, etc. - We
tried for a long time to let her do this herself but the results just
weren't nearly the same). This can be confusing for me. Is this ok to ask? Is that maybe uncomfortable for her and that's why she does not want to? Hm. </div>
<br />
I've understood today that if I
want her to do something for me, I need to ask her in a way that I find
convincing. If I am not convinced of myself being in the lead, how will she be?
(Obviously, I am talking about things that are ok to ask from a 3 y/o!)</div>
<br />
My
mom was very helpful for me with this insight. So often I see her ask
my daughter something (something that is no issue at all, and being with
my 3 year old 24/7, I have the advantage of knowing that). Very often my
daughter does exactly as my mom asked, and my mom is soooo surprised
every time! Ha ha. <br />
<br />
As in "Oh ... really? THANKS! I did not think you would actually do it". Ha ha. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-27680657382430520612016-07-29T22:12:00.003+02:002016-07-29T22:12:29.864+02:00Same child, different circumstances<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmnzLKUPdfEvBGN0t1z69qHVsBLK8fOVjSjUI3Jv95k_oNbVDSk1JYZSce-bQKFvxd-TU614xNGmMhZDxj3FqefD9HX_ioAAvx2aRrkhSA8Hx6SqqmZ8Bv0HLgEmqxj72tqIftNU3oag/s1600/DSC05500.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmnzLKUPdfEvBGN0t1z69qHVsBLK8fOVjSjUI3Jv95k_oNbVDSk1JYZSce-bQKFvxd-TU614xNGmMhZDxj3FqefD9HX_ioAAvx2aRrkhSA8Hx6SqqmZ8Bv0HLgEmqxj72tqIftNU3oag/s320/DSC05500.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My daughter (three years) helping me to make our own washing powder.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
</div>
<div>
</div>
<div>
Some people have - directly or indirectly - expressed the idea that
my daughter is maybe just easy to handle. A relaxed, sweet girl by
nature. And there were times when I wondered about this myself!<br /></div>
<div>
Having
said that, after three years, I've seen her in lots of different
situations. The biggest differences in her behavior occur when she's
with my mother (who does not apply the Continuum Concept). <br /></div>
<div>
My mom will say to my daughter:<br /></div>
<div>
"You are SUCH a diva!"<br /></div>
<div>
"You are too strong-willed". <br /></div>
<div>
"Little terrorist".<br /></div>
<div>
"Well, that's something you've got to learn to get used to". <br /></div>
<div>
"Oh oh, little miss don't-touch-me is a bit sensitive today, isn't she?"</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEvZ5_hhX6JhA6B1a7Mi_gzWQu-NXAdHUcRQ9kXSzrdNedU_IJ1l1b8JbMz6PgyYhpgoOOv7H1u71LmmFioLh0Ib9iq76-OC6gIVBaPL5cb9iZomsO4-pzNAwMErb6doVWbBmbCk1yMs/s1600/DSC05615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibEvZ5_hhX6JhA6B1a7Mi_gzWQu-NXAdHUcRQ9kXSzrdNedU_IJ1l1b8JbMz6PgyYhpgoOOv7H1u71LmmFioLh0Ib9iq76-OC6gIVBaPL5cb9iZomsO4-pzNAwMErb6doVWbBmbCk1yMs/s320/DSC05615.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /><div>
My daughter on the other hand will tell my mother things like:<br /></div>
<div>
"You are NOT allowed to touch me!"<br /></div>
<div>
"You are NOT allowed to look at me!"<br /></div>
<div>
"Go away!"<br /></div>
<div>
"My brother is OUR baby, you are not allow to touch him. Stop kissing him!"<br /></div>
<div>
(Alexsandra Burt said that dd is the voice of nature - ha!)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One
day my mother was here to visit, and she went grocery shopping with my
daughter (around two and a half back then). When they came back, my mom
told me that my daughter had had a major meltdown in one store. She was
so loud in her tantrum that people started looking, and that pretty much
everyone paid attention to them. My mom had to lift her up and carry
her outside while dd was kicking and screaming right and left. When
asked what happened before that, my mom said she did not allow dd to
take something she wanted to have. <br /></div>
<div>
Same situation: Dd
and I often go to stores together. She touches whatever looks
good to her. She will often ask if we can buy something. Sometimes, when
she was younger, she would take colorful products that looked good to
her and put them in the basket (that what she sees me doing!). That
alone was so sweet ... she would often even "read" the labels. Often it
was something that I did not want to buy. I said something like "Oh,
thanks dear. We don't need that today. Could you put it back?". Then she
put it back. Ha! Sounds too good to be true, right? I think attitude is
more important than the actual wording. </div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlu_rEXqAp0MfGAotyGWq7N1UKbmFxHv7oxUg_ciMnUisQPQb_WMburfTo1js_MG_W7JSXCydCxGJQUV_th-oK7JQmSQ9CBLz_YiCUfBByb93wMmN-okWCA7l0jAYaP0x96a6IrtUAsY/s1600/DSC05610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFlu_rEXqAp0MfGAotyGWq7N1UKbmFxHv7oxUg_ciMnUisQPQb_WMburfTo1js_MG_W7JSXCydCxGJQUV_th-oK7JQmSQ9CBLz_YiCUfBByb93wMmN-okWCA7l0jAYaP0x96a6IrtUAsY/s320/DSC05610.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Small strawberries in the wild.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzT5mi9lhy87gWYYQdbaJ8N8LnWKA4yVyeBUzKy79adqhT8EltigVXNnGzBesMwn9VY8D42TMHccj5DkS2Ab4nT2SuUmE3A1g6qfXEz4_IFoXC7kF3jqeCa2LpDGnPjNRiIrDz-i0nzVU/s1600/DSC05611.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzT5mi9lhy87gWYYQdbaJ8N8LnWKA4yVyeBUzKy79adqhT8EltigVXNnGzBesMwn9VY8D42TMHccj5DkS2Ab4nT2SuUmE3A1g6qfXEz4_IFoXC7kF3jqeCa2LpDGnPjNRiIrDz-i0nzVU/s320/DSC05611.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh raspberries on one of our hikes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1MhsWKf8rtN5cZp_3X0cyTaHgZonbBDun-NBIRRjJkwwnodmBkgobJBZNs7dxD83UQmPv6d-NHf_P6PukmUCpTfLEbPIi2L-avAtUb3RWhKRVjPNyYcgg9CYgldFy6tcREdAVsUtLpIo/s1600/DSC05607.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1MhsWKf8rtN5cZp_3X0cyTaHgZonbBDun-NBIRRjJkwwnodmBkgobJBZNs7dxD83UQmPv6d-NHf_P6PukmUCpTfLEbPIi2L-avAtUb3RWhKRVjPNyYcgg9CYgldFy6tcREdAVsUtLpIo/s320/DSC05607.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><span style="color: #0000ee;">Picking wild ra<span style="color: #0000ee;">spberries.</span></span><u><br /></u></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
Alexsandra
Burt said that foraging for food is one of the most natural things
humans can do. Really, the more I think about it, the more I believe
grocery shopping with toddler can actually be quite fun. I think
assigning them little tasks really helps. Dd pretty much always wants to
help me do whatever I do. <br /></div>
<div>
Many people have commented on how they've never seen a toddler that relaxed when shopping. <br /></div>
<div>
I
remember one day when we were at the checkout, where all the candy is.
Not that I do mind her eating candy. But she took several packages of
something I did not want to buy, mostly because I was sure no one would
eat it. She was passionate about this stuff as it looked so beautiful. I
told her to put it back. Seriously, I literally heard the people behind
me gasping! A nice elderly couple behind us smiled and said "Oh, good
luck ...". And then guess what: Dd put it all back. The elderly couple
commented on how this was the last thing they had expected.<br /></div>
<div>
For
a while, I let dd pick one "chocolate lady bug" in our organic store
every time we went. After a few weeks, she wanted to keep buying them,
but stopped eating them. I don't particularly enjoy those myself, so I
did not want to buy them just to let them go to waste. It was a bit of a
change for dd, but each time she wanted one, I said if she really wants
to eat one, we can come back later and get one (which I would have done
if she had ever asked about getting one - she never did). That sounded
ok to her and we went to the check out, paid for our groceries, and
left. <br /></div>
<div>
On the way to the check out, I pretty much
always tell her that anything in a glass is my job, but she can put the
entire rest on the counter. For a long time, I let her hand over the
money at the check out. Once or twice, she thought it was fun to drop
the bill on the floor and I had to pick it up. I discontinued giving her
the money. Not as a punishment, but to show her again how it's done, in
a calm and relaxed fashion. Alexsandra confirmed that this is probably
the best way to handle it (I was a bit worried back then because it had
happened in the first place. Somehow I thought things like these should
not occur at all. Haha. Turns out they do!) We took up our habit of her
paying after a while and everything was fine.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Really,
by now I have realized on several occasions that how we treat children
can lead to very different outcomes. I hope that makes sense. </div>
Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-15955541389803894912016-05-02T14:45:00.001+02:002016-05-02T15:32:33.605+02:00My big CC girl and another CC baby<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNOVJu0avZWQCuDCEm2GyeP0tqBnvpk4nSyj6llK_7JDE2V7EIHxOLO63vdlqbp0z9SYpnUFyq4GahVzi7d-vpSLAMzLbnySuYmXyKN4Emo5vq2-zEmASgd-ryKlWXVSJDQPXVHv10Ng/s1600/DSC05153.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNOVJu0avZWQCuDCEm2GyeP0tqBnvpk4nSyj6llK_7JDE2V7EIHxOLO63vdlqbp0z9SYpnUFyq4GahVzi7d-vpSLAMzLbnySuYmXyKN4Emo5vq2-zEmASgd-ryKlWXVSJDQPXVHv10Ng/s320/DSC05153.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going outside to buy some groceries.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My big girl has grown so much! She will be three this summer. It's hard to believe. She is still a JOY to be around. Now that she will not be two years old for much longer, I guess I can officially say that we skipped the terrible twos! I did not fully believe it when I started on this journey, but the Continuum Concept really does seem to work very well for us in this regard.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWf6H4wa5q-hwFKBrCr3WN26CTvZwZso1gDzpqybEig2oz8QdTbS-L3WDgwP3Hve-pq8YwHxQ6iqbHNjY88KqJ3h4ibIBiSwAR_YBjNcM-UyuEexqZHGs36PLEUBI56p4BV9OK0FbYpJU/s1600/DSC05092.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWf6H4wa5q-hwFKBrCr3WN26CTvZwZso1gDzpqybEig2oz8QdTbS-L3WDgwP3Hve-pq8YwHxQ6iqbHNjY88KqJ3h4ibIBiSwAR_YBjNcM-UyuEexqZHGs36PLEUBI56p4BV9OK0FbYpJU/s320/DSC05092.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the woods.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: 0px; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td style="text-align: left;">Now it could be a coincidence and she could just be a sweet girl by nature. BUT when she's with my mother (who treats her in a more "conventional" way), she can be very different. In fact, she did throw one major tantrum in a store once and my mother said that literally everyone stopped and looked at them, because she was so loud. My mother carried her outside and by the time they were home, they had both calmed down. <br />
"A voice of nature", as <a href="http://continuummom.blogspot.de/p/professional-consulting.html">Alexsandra Burt</a> put it! You treat dd in a disrespectful way and she will show you how it's not okay.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjORDZcbohGQv52RVG2XVpEgqbJN75VFjTVQ42uPamVKqgk067TH3MAKwg_Mmp4A4rzkWvSVdNWPe9PRZConnnGciCGhzHnW2t1TKm9k18WJuoiVnI2TmgvY9p-3reHmfqXUtEyfDWLFRg/s320/DSC05101.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Having lunch in the sun in early spring. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
And ... <b>we've had another CC baby</b>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
He was born in late Winter and has added more love, joy and giggles to our family. I love him! He does cry and fuss more than the Yequana babies did, but hey. I am doing my very best to keep all of us in our Continuum rhythm. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'll leave it at that for now. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Enjoy the month of May!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNOVJu0avZWQCuDCEm2GyeP0tqBnvpk4nSyj6llK_7JDE2V7EIHxOLO63vdlqbp0z9SYpnUFyq4GahVzi7d-vpSLAMzLbnySuYmXyKN4Emo5vq2-zEmASgd-ryKlWXVSJDQPXVHv10Ng/s1600/DSC05153.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-12315279782571871122015-08-18T23:04:00.000+02:002015-08-21T20:30:35.552+02:00Summer update & the sweet twos!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNn9xh-x8OdHYrDTs_zYqqnY4g88LmYw0x8dpwWbG6pii9f7ArLbfmFyehsfPnb3IkxjAIpF5e7KUzU4mzGsjyA2oBiNAmQkDODrwArF96VICJQyjWgVftH8PyVZf3cMIgqXdGwKgF8U/s1600/DSC04185.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXNn9xh-x8OdHYrDTs_zYqqnY4g88LmYw0x8dpwWbG6pii9f7ArLbfmFyehsfPnb3IkxjAIpF5e7KUzU4mzGsjyA2oBiNAmQkDODrwArF96VICJQyjWgVftH8PyVZf3cMIgqXdGwKgF8U/s320/DSC04185.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0000ee;">Picking berries <span style="color: #0000ee;">is still one of dd's favorite activities.</span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8uQnQh4De7gg7AgtPcacy-WahXp7MOIwRsRcOxbgrkLVdz9EeednXAACwsKJEDk_GF6Ua1Y_1fMvZU3WhSRyjw6WI0IfRDo9SEYHmwn4FUut84WYJ5_bblfIzZ3ffNxLNyfrX5l8c8ic/s1600/DSC04186.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8uQnQh4De7gg7AgtPcacy-WahXp7MOIwRsRcOxbgrkLVdz9EeednXAACwsKJEDk_GF6Ua1Y_1fMvZU3WhSRyjw6WI0IfRDo9SEYHmwn4FUut84WYJ5_bblfIzZ3ffNxLNyfrX5l8c8ic/s320/DSC04186.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost all ripe berries were gone when we left!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Wow, it's been a while!<br />
My only excuse is that I had an awful lot of paperwork to do and no time to blog.<br />
<br />
So far, this summer has had some very hot and many rainy days. Nevertheless, I am getting better at going outside with dd when it's raining heavily. It really does help to have appropriate clothing for all seasons. Actually, it was fun and refreshing to go outside with dd in the pouring rain the other day! We didn't stay outside very long (maybe 90mins?) but came back energized and happy.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqrrzAP31NwqpLFHPvi1yC4CGfdBjYXMYBLfH98XqTEnDEKBiW1OvkwCxpBOoAjwsoZNbQ0Y0dK_hpx2hHx_XBxbAXL6uY45yZpv73uWud2M85z9SUion4TBuV7KMeFHjB6I3WeLPt60/s1600/DSC04153.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLqrrzAP31NwqpLFHPvi1yC4CGfdBjYXMYBLfH98XqTEnDEKBiW1OvkwCxpBOoAjwsoZNbQ0Y0dK_hpx2hHx_XBxbAXL6uY45yZpv73uWud2M85z9SUion4TBuV7KMeFHjB6I3WeLPt60/s320/DSC04153.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Checking out a hole in a huge stone at a local park.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Dd turned two this summer. We have officially entered the stage of the "terrible twos" where apparently tantrums and mayhems can strike at any moment. Actually, nothing has happened and so far, there has been nothing terrible about the terrible twos. She is still sweet and rarely ever fusses. I'm extremely grateful for that and it makes parenting her joyful and easy. I do see that dd is strong-willed and can tell how she develops her little strategies to get something. I love that and we almost always find a way to meet both our needs and wants. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9DvIqoSlmfkzIPR_nfMK5BsVjkCHkV9wRdWrJ4hq6TgB0EbURahGwvrXvBkhLCdt3Zob7vObcNUZawJ9Ibt3sNy1SwZvFXRGepySLLiJSxhwLTPCk-RtrBngh9WoUX7Q1RfYDrq0hD0/s1600/DSC04188.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9DvIqoSlmfkzIPR_nfMK5BsVjkCHkV9wRdWrJ4hq6TgB0EbURahGwvrXvBkhLCdt3Zob7vObcNUZawJ9Ibt3sNy1SwZvFXRGepySLLiJSxhwLTPCk-RtrBngh9WoUX7Q1RfYDrq0hD0/s320/DSC04188.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I have no one else to take care of dd so I have to take her with me when I have an official
appointment. So far it always went well. I often bring a book or
something for her to play with just in case, but often the doctor's
office (or where ever we have to go) are enough to keep her interested in
her new surroundings for a while.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihkdniXnerxRpGbP1XQ5a1Wz3J5ybsDiN214J2i7u3zFpukKogiISWdHbBheba7o6aOkBShUnb-CV0MJCc9uJFdow-12owYq58KW2zXckXFr1UJLyZnLcg7qY8B4lge8TKUBogZZ082I/s1600/DSC04190.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihkdniXnerxRpGbP1XQ5a1Wz3J5ybsDiN214J2i7u3zFpukKogiISWdHbBheba7o6aOkBShUnb-CV0MJCc9uJFdow-12owYq58KW2zXckXFr1UJLyZnLcg7qY8B4lge8TKUBogZZ082I/s320/DSC04190.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking a break to have some water.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Going outside is still our main and favorite activity. It makes for a relaxed mom and a relaxed child! There is SO much to explore. It hardly ever gets boring. There are always people she likes to chat with. The other day, a man handed dd his dog's leash so she could walk the dog for a while. She had tons of fun and even the dog seemed to enjoy walking with her. <br />
<br />
Sometimes we did go to playgrounds this summer and dd still loves the baby swing. She needs help to get inside, though. I like watching her walking up to one of the mothers, asking them in her baby babble if she could use the swing, and always ending up getting help! I let her explore these social situations freely, and enjoy seeing her interact with others. I DO see the looks of "where is this little girl's mother?" and then raise my hand to waive, as if saying "No worries, I'm right here".<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CDa_aNpql4gxTw0KbpqMKQhbV80taca4tERSwNPQqcB5X_z9q_HG9_iBVkX2mubYNAEvmNP00Ym-m1DkL3avHGgM1GBSdX_jcUxSkgnpIhAOod4fh9GRCA5xiq0q49U9ryZQVvHcF_k/s1600/DSC04196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9CDa_aNpql4gxTw0KbpqMKQhbV80taca4tERSwNPQqcB5X_z9q_HG9_iBVkX2mubYNAEvmNP00Ym-m1DkL3avHGgM1GBSdX_jcUxSkgnpIhAOod4fh9GRCA5xiq0q49U9ryZQVvHcF_k/s320/DSC04196.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Picking more berries.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I find dd to be so much more independent now. She will easily go to the zoo with hubby for several hours, or go to a playground with my mother when she comes to visit. </div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsysqWm9NtSATm98CgAb2zWymOuN_cpnX2VX2LtwFRf8x7yJt4T_zBFM77e7ctqGjws9ZIC0imqCE9MYCzYlAZNkVGmMatcbwsd5ZOldeh5cn22NZc_7CJchsQHvK77kAOdh0E7vOXCw/s1600/Olivia+2015-07-11j.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbsysqWm9NtSATm98CgAb2zWymOuN_cpnX2VX2LtwFRf8x7yJt4T_zBFM77e7ctqGjws9ZIC0imqCE9MYCzYlAZNkVGmMatcbwsd5ZOldeh5cn22NZc_7CJchsQHvK77kAOdh0E7vOXCw/s320/Olivia+2015-07-11j.jpg" width="179" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Playing in the heat at a local water playground with grandmother sitting nearby.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
As dd gets older, she always finds new things to explore and do by herself. It's still a new learning experience for me, every time. Every time I have to make an effort to trust her again, although it does get easier with time knowing that it has always worked out so far. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBPVALtub2xPilSuEhkwk1HQBUQqwbX_pVl6-BfrB7FZdcn2cWGNFuCz6uarXgM_DIKsEKwOjP2eJek3nCy_4VPU3g7G0Bv9J-dbz9a5CGqWAZHq3AyMyhWbSRWoPLUwLovwW3zzw3Hc/s1600/Olivia+2015-06-15a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBPVALtub2xPilSuEhkwk1HQBUQqwbX_pVl6-BfrB7FZdcn2cWGNFuCz6uarXgM_DIKsEKwOjP2eJek3nCy_4VPU3g7G0Bv9J-dbz9a5CGqWAZHq3AyMyhWbSRWoPLUwLovwW3zzw3Hc/s320/Olivia+2015-06-15a.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Climbing! Ah! I really had to hold my breath in order to keep calm and let her explore the window sill.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
How has your summer been so far?<br />
<br />
Wishing you lots of happy days filled with joyful activities.<br />
Remember to keep it task-oriented instead of child-centered!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-72017801739084667782015-03-21T21:20:00.001+01:002015-03-21T21:32:36.733+01:00EC gathering and spring is coming<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyP1NvXlx8u_w7EXY3JNdaqzkm8kqU7N0o7xHX7UmAKS4p2Z4DrgMkx6aoOHoiw9h34hm5iN1p_7wu7z6td8jbL5cjNPy4IyRNzdLk1eZwBa7DwyIaV9c5T7ZgIjoFda_4SWWCj7bJWVY/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyP1NvXlx8u_w7EXY3JNdaqzkm8kqU7N0o7xHX7UmAKS4p2Z4DrgMkx6aoOHoiw9h34hm5iN1p_7wu7z6td8jbL5cjNPy4IyRNzdLk1eZwBa7DwyIaV9c5T7ZgIjoFda_4SWWCj7bJWVY/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-08.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
So much has happened recently, and so little time to blog.<br />
I wish I would write more.<br />
<br />
I gave my first talk on The Continuum Concept (TCC) at an <a href="http://www.heiloase.eu/termine.html">EC gathering</a> two days ago.<br />
Welcome to anyone who has joined this blog after we met there, I'm glad to have you! <br />
<br />
I loved it and could have talked so much longer. I believe more people than normal showed up, which shows the interest in TCC. I was very happy to share a bit of what I have learned so far. All the little and big things that make our life easier, more joyful and more harmonious.<br />
<br />
I have to say, it is indeed a smooth ride most of the time. And when it's not, really, I don't worry about it but take it as a gentle reminder to get back in my continuum rhythm. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87wp3LKG1FGQ4SfddynCuXCy4mrKxEYyccbnpRtz8Gb2M_0C8g1k08-3tzmtUJZtNrG7__y1TSGTijzdJ_P6vo-DZ-J0G3HnWLdwVY6NkhrtgB024dVXJIo3p53jB9LCxfFz4V1YzM-8/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-08a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi87wp3LKG1FGQ4SfddynCuXCy4mrKxEYyccbnpRtz8Gb2M_0C8g1k08-3tzmtUJZtNrG7__y1TSGTijzdJ_P6vo-DZ-J0G3HnWLdwVY6NkhrtgB024dVXJIo3p53jB9LCxfFz4V1YzM-8/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-08a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Spring is coming and we spent a lot of time outside in nature.<br />
<br />
Wow,
thinking back I remember how hard that was for me at first. I didn't
really know any good spots to go to in the city. It was winter. Dd was
still crawling and I didn't want to put her down for fear of her
becoming soaking wet within a few minutes.<br />
<br />
It's all so much easier these days.<br />
<br />
In
fact, hubby often tries to do me a favor by taking dd to the zoo for
some hours. I really dislike being inside so much on those days (then
again, I don't really go out by myself either). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqqcpAYx-KuxEzZgx6WL-7sK7jhA6ZaJosLcBkuQmMRNsU_TwI6JRmC2HYEeLNhPWgsE9QzCkdKpxqC-c-FgZEG0NiBeNhkkAl9oggA7IqvFAUR4CJnx_78lZy4lrRHF8TNSIL29HCZY/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzqqcpAYx-KuxEzZgx6WL-7sK7jhA6ZaJosLcBkuQmMRNsU_TwI6JRmC2HYEeLNhPWgsE9QzCkdKpxqC-c-FgZEG0NiBeNhkkAl9oggA7IqvFAUR4CJnx_78lZy4lrRHF8TNSIL29HCZY/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="http://continuummom.blogspot.de/p/professional-consulting.html">Alexsandra</a>
often tells me that nature is our home. It really is! I feel so good when I'm in nature, like I can finally be myself.<br />
<br />
Seriously, it's hard to worry about something when you're there. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bOIrb4HBDfyamgflW1I9_BR7Q_7nX2NYhm56dt3YLpPCAFUcgB8MhcjzFFPg8aF-_tSiV3t6SmBsoDO_ZjTEAo0T7qawIgI10oSMIDC4Q-5hFLXhIYIFike1fc2pMp0SC7Gdkqxs330/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-bOIrb4HBDfyamgflW1I9_BR7Q_7nX2NYhm56dt3YLpPCAFUcgB8MhcjzFFPg8aF-_tSiV3t6SmBsoDO_ZjTEAo0T7qawIgI10oSMIDC4Q-5hFLXhIYIFike1fc2pMp0SC7Gdkqxs330/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
When the weather forecast looks good, I take dd outside for as long as we can. We walk, we collect stones, we take little sticks from the road and throw them back into the woods. There are always dogs she can play with for a while. We take a lot of breaks, have a snack and some water. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66WYQXCar7VZA0XXup5v8TenPx_qpFdsPZZmPgDKWIg7AJbKRm9W7v2ukyppujlCnkPmycySfs4YpGfu9xw2DDD9y9o63QVMvoZho_KAcDyEkr4pMw2bofZeU_unt5ah4FHjbG288VHU/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj66WYQXCar7VZA0XXup5v8TenPx_qpFdsPZZmPgDKWIg7AJbKRm9W7v2ukyppujlCnkPmycySfs4YpGfu9xw2DDD9y9o63QVMvoZho_KAcDyEkr4pMw2bofZeU_unt5ah4FHjbG288VHU/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16b.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
Today we spent pretty much at home though. Hubby has come down with a fever and sleeps in the living room, and I go and check in on him every hour. Dd and I still had an active and lovely day. We prepared food and then shared it, we cleaned our apartment a bit, we built something with toys. We went grocery shopping several times, and inspired by the music in one grocery store, we had a little 80ies revival party back home. <br />
<br />
She's sleeping in the ring sling as I'm typing this blogpost. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQz_kVh7ZZ861OAMgaECKjaEafCQJqxlVj5JY2RbpDRwoGy7fjgGHTHe_JJPYGh4eQOZyqA0j-dq8S26OfBkR18YD67X_2JHDf3BZbZWSAmnnjvDrB3y36PiAqU_DfIRkzFngnKJFfyz8/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQz_kVh7ZZ861OAMgaECKjaEafCQJqxlVj5JY2RbpDRwoGy7fjgGHTHe_JJPYGh4eQOZyqA0j-dq8S26OfBkR18YD67X_2JHDf3BZbZWSAmnnjvDrB3y36PiAqU_DfIRkzFngnKJFfyz8/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16e.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
I always find it so much easier to be in my continuum rhythm outside though. So really, if you want to get started with TCC, go outside.<br />
<br />
If you have to stay inside, sing and dance. Have a party! Chances are your child will love it. <br />
<br />
Good luck and if you like, let me know how it goes. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f1T9gO-7gPmYl1zy6ArtK8Mde-o6yhc8ycEcjfepcXRztWJ7Hdz2PbBhHihDspfd4JJ6rygpIyogW_m0ToDK1HpiJ_TOrbSxtsh2EnuSvf3on1OYUrO_u3hGiTltEd-5sEfMQrYFJM8/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3f1T9gO-7gPmYl1zy6ArtK8Mde-o6yhc8ycEcjfepcXRztWJ7Hdz2PbBhHihDspfd4JJ6rygpIyogW_m0ToDK1HpiJ_TOrbSxtsh2EnuSvf3on1OYUrO_u3hGiTltEd-5sEfMQrYFJM8/s1600/Olivia+2015-03-16f.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my favorite spots in beautiful Neanderthal.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-15662265680923605992015-02-13T19:39:00.001+01:002015-02-13T19:39:07.958+01:00Modeling behavior & a few insights<br />
- We had another CC gathering on Wednesday which was really nice.<br />
<br />
- Dd has started using her potty on her own now. She was naked one morning, and suddenly told me "pee pee", got up, went to the bathroom, sat down on her potty and peed into it.<br />
This is pretty much how I modeled it to her. I say "Oh, I have to pee", go to the bathroom and use the toilet.<br />
I have little attachment to when exactly she goes without diapers all the time. I feel neither like pushing nor delaying this. I assume she will use the potty more and more often with time.<br />
<br />
- Reminded myself of something that <a href="http://continuummom.blogspot.de/p/professional-consulting.html">Alexsandra Burt</a> shared with me: Don't try to make the child happy - try to meet the child's needs in the best way you can.<br />
I find it important that other people are not too attached to my happiness. In fact, someone you can share deep sadness with is very valuable! It's nice to be allowed to feel not-so-great sometimes, without anyone trying to fix it.<br />
<br />
- Forgot to mention that dd did cut herself a while ago. She was eating sweet corn from a can and must have cut herself with the lid. She still hasn't cut herself with a knife, even though she sometimes uses one as a spoon. It's quite hard for me to watch sometimes but she seems to be ok.<br />
<br />
- One day hubby and I were talking with each other and dd started to wander around. She came accross a fluff ball in the corner of our bedroom. She went to the kitchen, got herself a hand broom, came back and cleaned it up. I am more and more convinced of simply modeling how things are done in our culture. We said "oh, thank you", but otherwise did not make it a big deal to preserve her inner motivation - I want to avoid making dd dependent on our praise. <br />
<br />
- Oftentimes giving dd a few seconds to do something makes a major difference. I often remind myself to take things slow and not just rush through everything. <br />
<br />
- Not really CC related, but: Dd is totally into blueberries at the moment. Blueberries make for blue poop - I feel like I am diapering a smurf!Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-9744076857001799752015-02-06T03:38:00.001+01:002015-02-06T03:44:36.219+01:00Trusting the child's abilitiesA few pics of dd's little adventures at home - these were a few times I had the time to get my camera ready.<br />
<br />
She often amazes me with the oddest positions, and (almost) always without hurting herself. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00EGuYOscr32uIgpDC7udm9YDONYXFEFHSl4O74ylGOm7bnsg-J7wvyHrHr2sEsuWD9Uc-AxOeNuG3T6OqKnsVMtO1RQyq4Cf7HB9bLMEuMpLMRVllstdvAUYM3OMJE5JjBHlYA2yXRg/s1600/Olivia+2015-01-03a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi00EGuYOscr32uIgpDC7udm9YDONYXFEFHSl4O74ylGOm7bnsg-J7wvyHrHr2sEsuWD9Uc-AxOeNuG3T6OqKnsVMtO1RQyq4Cf7HB9bLMEuMpLMRVllstdvAUYM3OMJE5JjBHlYA2yXRg/s1600/Olivia+2015-01-03a.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">climbing up a ladder, 18 months old</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Still, I have no idea how she managed to stand on the edge
of her potty for so long, or sit on the edge of a wooden box, without
falling. From every angle it looked physically impossible to me, but
hey. The worst thing that could have happened was falling, so I just let
her experiment. She was fine the whole time though and seemed to enjoy herself. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoobBhZm8YfLRzcnDXBQtOBWodWRxe_MRPI5hKSD-Z2iUF4wJS8ZGyX0N3jvMGyrtQ_ps310KHPJuzs4UbK_7p7Y-3Pzqf5mVEK1RwMu64ZV_-2wNeXUXbh9UvNzSN3zt2XVpRX6RsPGA/s1600/Olivia+2014-12-19a.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoobBhZm8YfLRzcnDXBQtOBWodWRxe_MRPI5hKSD-Z2iUF4wJS8ZGyX0N3jvMGyrtQ_ps310KHPJuzs4UbK_7p7Y-3Pzqf5mVEK1RwMu64ZV_-2wNeXUXbh9UvNzSN3zt2XVpRX6RsPGA/s1600/Olivia+2014-12-19a.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">balancing on the edge of her potty at 17 months</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4n7G7wThCTQvttianutKwzBURw2xGnFFKX4_ko_vERzemUJ-rM5ZeI29LxA6dC5M09dXzJO4TzE22Fc4ROvIa4wFjL5x5GuH8dpF_mGex4EQC8QZLrjM0Z3K8N5Iyk3I611dqOFGubE/s1600/Olivia-2014-07-09_5+(2).jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw4n7G7wThCTQvttianutKwzBURw2xGnFFKX4_ko_vERzemUJ-rM5ZeI29LxA6dC5M09dXzJO4TzE22Fc4ROvIa4wFjL5x5GuH8dpF_mGex4EQC8QZLrjM0Z3K8N5Iyk3I611dqOFGubE/s1600/Olivia-2014-07-09_5+(2).jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sitting on a wooden box, 13 months old</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-4929256983321807612015-02-01T21:01:00.000+01:002015-02-01T21:01:01.978+01:00Starting to use the pottyDd has started to use the potty a few days ago.<br />
<br />
She has been interested for quite a while now in what I do in the bathroom. Now she follows me to the toilet, takes a piece of toilet paper, and sits down on her potty. I normally help her with her clothes and her diaper. Often times she just sits there, and when I get up from the toilet, she gets up from her potty, too, and says "empty". But she has also used it quite a bit as an actual potty.<br />
<br />
I tried not to get the super-excited-wow-you-did-it-proud-mommy-look on my face, but I'm not sure if that worked. It want using the potty to be something normal and not scare her off of it by an intense reaction. But secretly I think it's great - it's one more thing she can do by herself, and it means less diapers.<br />
<br />
This approached has worked best for us so far, me doing things the way I do them, dd observing me, and then starting to imitate me when she's ready. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-45734418924568667402015-01-29T16:41:00.000+01:002015-01-29T16:41:02.315+01:00Why I'm not worried about my child learning social behavior[<i>Warning - some readers might not agree with me, plus this blog post is full of bragging about my child!</i>] <br />
<br />
The topic of children needing other children to learn social behavior came up in our local playgroup recently. Some mothers give their toddlers into day-care centers for that reason, even if it's just for a few hours.<br />
<br />
I'm a bit hesitant to write about this, because my daughter is still so young (almost 19 months). Still, personally, I am not worried at all about her learning social behavior.<br />
<br />
I believe children are indeed born as social creatures who <i>have</i> to fit in their tribe to survive, just like Jean Liedloff said. They've got it all in them from the start! <br />
<br />
Also, I've never seen children this young play together anyway. They rather play by themselves, sitting next to each other. CC consultant <a href="http://continuummom.blogspot.de/p/professional-consulting.html">Alexsandra Burt</a> said that children under three years (give or take) don't really need play dates. <br />
<br />
I've never seen dd hit another child, and the only child I've ever seen her push was a girl older than her who repeatedly tried to sit on dd's lap. She bit one boy's finger when, after hitting her in the face, he put his finger in her mouth. So far, if anything, it has been self defense, and I usually see her get away from anyone using violent behavior before it starts. Even when dd must have been in a lot of pain from an eczema she had for long, she would cry often but never took it out on anyone else.<br />
<br />
When tidying up in playgroups, dd helps put the toys away. She loves to go to other mothers and enjoys their company, too. Whenever we go out, she smiles at people so much. <br />
<br />
She follows me everywhere around the house. As soon as I wash my hands, she waits to hand me a towel (yes, really). How nice and social is that? Whenever someone puts on shoes to leave our house, dd gets her shoes to join them. <br />
<br />
I'm very confident that any child's social behavior is just fine (if not fantastic) from birth. There is no need to teach them anything. They learn by observing others and make up their little minds about what works and what doesn't. As Jean Liedloff said: "Learning is natural. Teaching is not." <br />
<br />
I'd love to hear your opinion! Feel free to leave a comment. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-83706352579931242212015-01-13T00:59:00.001+01:002015-01-13T00:59:53.823+01:00Active mother, happy toddlerIt's been a month since I haven't blogged - ooops! Too busy with life and had little laptop time.<br />
<br />
Just wanted to share the details of our particularly good day today. I was busy all day long, doing chores like doing the laundry, cleaning our entire apartment, preparing food, eating, grocery shopping, etc.<br />
Dd sometimes joins in or she doesn't.<br />
I was focused on the task at hand. <br />
<br />
Hubby asked what I gave dd for dinner since she was so happy and cheerful. Haha. <br />
Well, that's the power of TCC! It's makes for happy and relaxed children. <br />
<br />
I wish I was that active every day!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://continuummom.blogspot.de/p/professional-consulting.html">Alexsandra Burt</a> said that one BIG reason (amongst others, of course) why children are unhappy is that they need continuous activity (that they can join if they like, or only observe if they like) but don't get it.<br />
It's probably harder on your own but it can be done. I guess we all dream of a friendly tribe of like-minded people so that there is activity all day long. It can be done on your own, too. And, it's probably still less work than putting up with an unhappy child all day long. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-32303244329239846532014-12-14T13:20:00.003+01:002014-12-14T13:20:37.643+01:00Our CC weekI enjoyed last week so much.<br />
<br />
We stayed at home much more than we usually would because dd felt a little under the weather (runny nose, coughing). We went to a EC gathering (just so I can see what these gathering are like these days as I will present the Continuum Concept there next year - we do not do EC) and dd did not seem to enjoy company as much as she usually does, and was clingy. She cried easily and did not feel well. This time though, I did NOT ask myself whether this comes from any of my parenting. I just noticed, ha, dd is feeling unwell. I hugged her more often and got her a book and she looked at the pictures sitting on my lap while I followed the conversation. The same night she got really sick so this confirmed my intuition that she was simply feeling unwell.<br />
<br />
We stayed mostly inside the next day and I just followed my intuition on how to do things. At night, when my husband came home, he asked: "What did you do with her? She's ecstatic!". She was very happy and smiley, obviously feeling better after a day full of rest. <br />
<br />
Not much to say about this week except that it was really nice and felt right. <br />
<br />
I wonder if I should attend playgroups, LLL gatherings etc. less often. I went from a very minimalist approach (around 3-4 activities per week) when dd was a few months old to up to three activities per day these last months. Quite a lot. I don't really know what's best for us. One thing I have noticed for sure is, that if I do so much, I no longer look forward to meeting with others as much. I want gatherings to be a joy and not a burden, so I guess I less is more in our case. <br />
<br />
Indoor activities we did were: Buying and preparing food, cleaning, sewing, listening to music on youtube, mud masks in the bath tub, going for walks, building a Christmas tree from paper from a handricraft box my husband bought for us, doing laundry, dying a new wrap, writing Christmas letters to my parents and my in-laws and decorating them with little stars, hearts, etc., taking them to the post office, etc.<br />
<br />
With every little thing, dd can do more and more each week. I try to find little things for her to do. Sometimes it doesn't really work but mostly it does. She takes a lot of pride in her ability to contribute!Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-62087339359431448992014-12-09T21:45:00.002+01:002014-12-09T21:45:38.380+01:00Our (best) CC week (ever)Last week was started out not so great (<b>and then turned into our best week ever!</b>).<br />
<br />
We had some weird days and I felt more and more insecure about how to handle it. Having so many principles and techniques in mind can become confusing! Dd was whiny more often than normal for a CC child and I felt it's something I'm doing (or not doing). <br />
Overall it was going very well but still, these situations did bother me!<br />
<br />
I kind of gave up on Saturday. I laid on the couch. I felt tired. I have been working hard on this CC thing for a year now and still feel like I'm missing something obvious.<br />
For some reason, I felt like asking hubby for advice might be a good idea.<br />
<br />
No time to retype everything so I will simply repost my e-mail to my <a href="http://continuummom.blogspot.de/p/professional-consulting.html">CC consultant Alexsandra Burt</a> from last night (with a few minor changes): <br />
<br />
"<i>Had a pretty big insight yesterday after talking to <span class="il">hubby</span>.
I believe I know why [dd] cried and was a bit unhappy with me. So much to
type and I'm already in bed so I will try to cut it short.<br /><br />I
had another "not so good" day with [dd] yesterday. We went to the woods
and she seemed tired and whiny. My gut feeling has always been it's
something I'm doing. I don't mean this in a negative way. Something
simple. Something you would spot right away if you would see us for some
hours. For example, I was walking into the woods and she walked
somewhere else. I let her and slowly walked further. Then she started to
cry. I remained where I was. She pretented to fall and said "ouch" and
cried and stayed where she was. She did come to me later on but it was just painful for both of us, annoying and overall not going
well at all. <br /><br />At home I was desperate (overall it's going
well, I know, but still, these situations bother me, seem unnecessary,
and out of TCC). So I figured I ask <span class="il">hubby</span> for
advice. I asked him if she cried at all the three last Sundays (they
went to different zoos and were gone for 4-5 hours). He said no. (Same
with my youngest sister - [dd] is so happy with her and it's not only
distraction). This was odd for me, because both <span class="il">hubby</span>
and my sister engage with [dd] so much, talk to her, etc., are pretty
child-centered I'd say. Everything I try to avoid. Why then does it work
better than what I'm doing?<br /><br />I told <span class="il">hubby</span>
about how [dd] went off, etc. If he had any advice for me (because he
sees me every day and is so close to us, I thought maybe it's something
that is obvious to him). He said he didn't know. But that he just
doesn't let her walk away so far. <br /><br />And this is when it struck me!!!!!<br /><br /><b>I realized I was no longer giving [dd] clear expectations and guidance.</b>
It's ok for me to guide her, and in fact I believe she needs just that.
I was so committed to not interfering with what she is doing, hoping
she will get it right, somewhat resenting her if she didn't live up to
the vague expectations I have of an ideal CC child. OF COURSE this
cannot get us anywhere. I felt a major relieve. Like I am FINALLY
allowed to say something again, finally allowing myself to "steer the
boat" again. Taking the burden off her little shoulders to always magically know what she should be doing or not be doing.<br /><br />No cries today (except for hurting herself a
bit when tumbling, and once more for some seconds when she had to stay
in the sling because I was in a hurry and needed to get home on time). <br /><br />I really believe this is it!<br /></i><br />
<div>
<i>I
have had so many insights since then, too much to type. I feel WAY more
comfortable in my parenting now. I am more passionate than ever about
TCC. I feel so full of joy. <b>Now I feel like I finally know how to do it!</b>
I had gotten so confused with what to allow, what to say, what not to
say, hoping she would not whine again, etc. Now I feel like the
knowledgeable person in the house again, the true rock of Gibraltar. The
one you can go to when you need to know something, or need help. I am
happy. I am around. If she needs me, I'm here. It all started when you
said that whiny behavior comes from too much negotiation. I wondered for
a long time, hm, maybe I am too much going back and forth with what I
say. I realized last night, for example, darn, sometimes I let her touch
the laptop, sometimes not. How is [dd] supposed to know??? Now I got
clear on me not wanting her to touch the laptop (for now). She'll get
used to it. Children are so good at getting used to clear rules, clear
expectations. <br /><br />Anyway. I HOPE we will carry on like that. I am
very confident. It's been going so well that I feel so much love again!
It all feels so right now. <b>Like I finally have the last piece of the puzzle.</b>
Today I was coloring a book and [dd] was doing something with the sewing
machine behind me. She was happy, I was happy. I realized, wow, this is
it!!! This feels so RIGHT! We're back in TCC. <br /></i></div>
<div>
<i>I have
noticed today how I had started to resent [dd] here and there for being
whiny. I had gotten irritable and frustrated from time to time. Now I
feel like I can finally talk freely again, and all of a sudden I
realized how I had lost trust in my own knowledge. Not even sure why. <br /></i></div>
<i>Seriously,
for some days I had been wondering [...] things are going down hill for us and I cannot
figure out why. Now I feel like it's been right in front of me all the
time and I suddenly opened my eyes to see it. <br /><br />Just wanted to
share that. I have seen [dd] smile so many times today, and I am no longer
standing in my own way!</i>" Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-63258722295264494292014-11-29T19:53:00.002+01:002014-11-29T20:06:55.543+01:00Our CC week(s)No time to blog last weekend so here's what happened for the last two weeks: <br />
<br />
~ We got complimented a lot which warmed my heart! I am eternally doubting whether I'm doing things in a good way. So I was happy to hear from total strangers that we look very happy, harmonious, alert, relaxed, peaceful and what not. A cool lady who lives around here told me there aren't many mothers like myself and that she thinks I am very relaxed and know what I'm doing. Ha!<br />
<br />
A young man in a supermarket said he had never seen such a peaceful toddler (in an environment where they are usually not allowed to touch things). I told him I put it down to dd having several tasks when we go grocery shopping (all of which she picked herself!): Climbing in the shopping cart (with my help), putting the products I hand her in the shopping cart, handing me the products at the check out, taking a bill I hand her and handing it to the cashier, taking the receipt and putting it in my bag. Really, with all of these assignments, you have no time for a tantrum. <br />
<br />
~ Note to self:<br />
<br />
How to spend the day the Continuum way:<br />
1. Do an activity.<br />
2. Find a way to let child participate.<br />
3. Focus on task. <br />
Everyone happy. <br />
<br />
~ We spend more and more time in the woods. We try to make it two days a week, and go for five to six hours (this is a long as we can before sunset). We keep on finding new paths, plus hiking is probably the least child-centered activity I know. Everyone is happy in nature, we do our keep-fit trail, have snacks, explore whatever we find on the ground, etc. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimblm-Hn0TwNdeD7It5dtHewQMmwY09iYg4R50RsE05qIxjc0DcERqCNE0-lkziSB_qDB83oJ83GmjDe6GYxs9FVCFVVVk1zUimqX73TyKtJCGntw7nQfZj6kRatNzGfYSpngxkuxdY9M/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimblm-Hn0TwNdeD7It5dtHewQMmwY09iYg4R50RsE05qIxjc0DcERqCNE0-lkziSB_qDB83oJ83GmjDe6GYxs9FVCFVVVk1zUimqX73TyKtJCGntw7nQfZj6kRatNzGfYSpngxkuxdY9M/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-24.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9hUWK6tlr3vjrkOp-t3nJ0HVGo_HvG50nf8jYmPvIZy0rX8K7YrN9z4RZ0YuyzZW9TZ8PZLh6HSBsoNPT8GhBwNRsDmqKr6Jp_AB3-OZr66bQCMpx95HqKoK1Nu_3K13bbEzYPCCeYs/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-24_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX9hUWK6tlr3vjrkOp-t3nJ0HVGo_HvG50nf8jYmPvIZy0rX8K7YrN9z4RZ0YuyzZW9TZ8PZLh6HSBsoNPT8GhBwNRsDmqKr6Jp_AB3-OZr66bQCMpx95HqKoK1Nu_3K13bbEzYPCCeYs/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-24_2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
~ Had two more sessions with Alexsandra Burt in the meantime but no time to blog about it. <br />
In a nutshell:<br />
I was struggling with knowing what would be
the CC way of reacting when dd has been playing happily for a while when
we were some place else, but then starts saying "mommy!" to call me. We discussed ways for me to react to that without making a big child-centered fuss about dd whining. <br />
<br />
~ I love my dad! It's nothing new but I realized once more what a good CC grand-father he is. We went to see him for three days and did some short hikes in the woods. We were rather child-centered inside (reading books to dd - I did my best to read the book myself, look at the pictures, talk about them, and have dd watch me). My youngest sister (15 y/o) is fantastic with dd. I trust she will be a wonderful mother herself one day.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOyvj01OPqvAgE-NVi2AwLwzauAAM5E7IAddTgDV0cLzuij_e_q6uFCw56YPY_FiENpEUr2Eg_oNdzbsGsdvDbcODFjuw_7281m9mlkSwi0liEhKTR2pjYyi0IdRyJs-YrcXvwEIXstwY/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-27.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOyvj01OPqvAgE-NVi2AwLwzauAAM5E7IAddTgDV0cLzuij_e_q6uFCw56YPY_FiENpEUr2Eg_oNdzbsGsdvDbcODFjuw_7281m9mlkSwi0liEhKTR2pjYyi0IdRyJs-YrcXvwEIXstwY/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-27.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-75074575841422098522014-11-18T21:38:00.000+01:002014-12-17T06:55:10.089+01:00Our CC week~ We're still averaging three hours in nature (or at least in a park) daily. Last Thursday we spent five hours on a keep-fit-trail and I felt sooo good afterwards! It was a joy to be out in nature for so long, and afterwards it was a joy to come home. <br />
Dd is having tons of fun with people we meet.<br />
We met a very sweet little girl (4 y/o) with her sister and her grand-parents. The girl was so good with dd! I would like to write more on that but this blogpost is alreay too long as it is. <br />
<br />
~ I read something about "children's right to be ordinary" and it totally resonated with me. <br />
<br />
~ Last time I met with my mommy friends I held one little boy, and dd became a bit jealous. Not sure when that came from.<br />
<br />
~ Task-oriented group acitivities. It's all about task-oriented group actitivies. Some days ago dd got bored (we were at home) and started to whine and complain. I took her to the kitchen and we washed the dishes. I put the wet dishes on a towel on the floor, and we dryed them together. Then I put dd on a box and she put the cutlery in the drawer (with a little help, obviously). Seriously, the moment she had something to do she was back to her normal happy self again. <br />
<br />
<div>
~ We did gymnastics at home and she loves when I do a simple forward roll on a mattress. She tried to do the same and ran towards the mattress, giggling, and then somewhat jumping to do a forward roll herself (it didn't really turn out correctly but we had so much fun!).</div>
<div>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA8TfOc3euKVddourKc7ScKJnA2VZ3Itfs9qoD1sE-kVOYapivLs75hIbuHNkFnC4eycmyrr57aFA_HRBUnfYigvBsrKgTlJjmFMHKurTKhQn2HjAnxsfA34czZ8jQuSIAjWoGx7ia28/s1600/rollevowaerts.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSA8TfOc3euKVddourKc7ScKJnA2VZ3Itfs9qoD1sE-kVOYapivLs75hIbuHNkFnC4eycmyrr57aFA_HRBUnfYigvBsrKgTlJjmFMHKurTKhQn2HjAnxsfA34czZ8jQuSIAjWoGx7ia28/s1600/rollevowaerts.gif" height="139" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">from www.sportunterricht.de</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
~ Dd took her clothes off the laundry rack and put them in the closet. Later on she also attempted to fold socks the way I do. She put her hand in one sock and then wasn't sure what to do and therefore put it aside. So sweet. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dL9JLnoVQM5MKAYvv8S_PLOZ2p2ykLarLVJugCwjjDyZlFkqxctADqVnxOBhd_-V2SDfOfiWYqCpsrZIXH4ZQFlST6zBXC3aOPhzBy9wa-anrQdR9VK4iZjZMYi7fulZGl-kBIl5NHs/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-09_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dL9JLnoVQM5MKAYvv8S_PLOZ2p2ykLarLVJugCwjjDyZlFkqxctADqVnxOBhd_-V2SDfOfiWYqCpsrZIXH4ZQFlST6zBXC3aOPhzBy9wa-anrQdR9VK4iZjZMYi7fulZGl-kBIl5NHs/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-09_4.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dd putting her clothes in the closet - right where they belong</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
~ I often just say "I'd like to change your diapers" or "I'd like to help you put on your jacket before we go out". Then dd comes to me and we change her diapers or I help her get dressed. Sometimes I think it's just too good to be true but it does indeed work that way! <br />
<br />
~ She has also started to carry a teddy bear around, hugging it and stroking its back.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4XJzbnGUgUdbqR3LgrpXhhvnkrKHCaSPLolcrEaWH74A80Lkz8iEqYuO3EAPIwCilPMiAOOjl1MEaKAi1t1Rvhezx8K_vz6DQPqq3TPkPz7vGkgjQ2jIlb5KGUJHPYFXqS1ZXDNDYHg/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-09_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL4XJzbnGUgUdbqR3LgrpXhhvnkrKHCaSPLolcrEaWH74A80Lkz8iEqYuO3EAPIwCilPMiAOOjl1MEaKAi1t1Rvhezx8K_vz6DQPqq3TPkPz7vGkgjQ2jIlb5KGUJHPYFXqS1ZXDNDYHg/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-09_3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
~ For a while, hubby and dd practiced how to moo like a cow.
Dd mood quite loudly whenever she saw a picture of a cow. I said
casually "You know, you can simply moo in a normal voice". Just giving
her the information, and making no big fuss about her mooing loudly. And
she did simply say it normally from then on. I really like when things work like
that! <br />
<br />
~ My parents-in-law sent dd a parcel and she had tons of fun unpacking it.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjlbYJQyaj3GqPK2XXJ3ScUuFOz4-seB_IRFgeMoiO8kz0F_QjshHFx0sNRmaJiQvbV3uBa03xAYFFbRWdG_Rc8dqYlGk6T5WW-3jK35mMhXRARcseU_G7BSlzkN8m9xs58fwEkoWqHI/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-15_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdjlbYJQyaj3GqPK2XXJ3ScUuFOz4-seB_IRFgeMoiO8kz0F_QjshHFx0sNRmaJiQvbV3uBa03xAYFFbRWdG_Rc8dqYlGk6T5WW-3jK35mMhXRARcseU_G7BSlzkN8m9xs58fwEkoWqHI/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-15_2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
~ Dd wants to use swings on her own now.<br />
<br />
~ I also realized that she never walks holding my hand. She walks by herself when we're outside. Only once did she ever grab my hand (not sure why) and let it go after some seconds. So often somebody will tell me how great dd is walking. First I thought it's a polite compliment, but now I wonder if people feel compelled to say something because we're usually seeing toddlers in strollers?<br />
<br />
~ I feel pretty relaxed by now being outside with dd. She follows me and I don't have to worry about it. At first, when she started to really walk outside, it was as new for me as it was for her, but we're used to it by now. As long as she is allowed to hold something, I can even take her to supermarkets and she won't touch a thing! Yesterday she followed me through an entire narrow Turkish shop, happily carrying an avocado and keeping up with me. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-42593045383705879852014-11-09T18:34:00.002+01:002014-11-09T18:34:42.993+01:00Our CC week~ It occured to me I have to carry a little booklet with me at all times. Like I did when I traveled the world. Then I can write down quickly all the insights I have while out and about with dd.<br />
<br />
~ Dd starts helping us so much more than before. It's beyond cute sometimes. When my husband did the laundry and put everything into a big IKEA bag to take it to the dryer at the laundromat, she got herself another IKEA bag and put other clothes in there (stuff I am going to sell on ebay). Then she dragged the bag to our front door and placed it next to the one my husband had prepared.<br />
<br />
The other day I was folding towels, and being a perfect little copycat, she even did my exact hand movements. I had such a hard time suppressing my laughter.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5faMB-2wVaSJQz5w0MzDteQBHgxgzJRtbC3JRfKz9NBM7U6c-nwODhirosSoFe7v7nQTkuh3cWPOj9oViaol_y94st4ZojZh3ORrYE2zLcmdtus4oMhD5usgcNDgK2xb8BVRwD3jnmY/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-08.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-5faMB-2wVaSJQz5w0MzDteQBHgxgzJRtbC3JRfKz9NBM7U6c-nwODhirosSoFe7v7nQTkuh3cWPOj9oViaol_y94st4ZojZh3ORrYE2zLcmdtus4oMhD5usgcNDgK2xb8BVRwD3jnmY/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-08.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">On the left are two kitchen towels that dd folded, on the right is the pile I did. The result is not impressive, but seeing her folding towels was very cute.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ORAxH4Rn3PGTRjaiLuzitVo2hS-AjB_ZB3_qVEIdi-rC1MraM0aRFQE0Fj5sqYm25BlS-Z0GB7-n2kff5mP8llEjUydm-xYyq7J1SYgKBK2fIe3q2wmzGNPtdeAV06MjXTb07zWxSE0/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-08_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5ORAxH4Rn3PGTRjaiLuzitVo2hS-AjB_ZB3_qVEIdi-rC1MraM0aRFQE0Fj5sqYm25BlS-Z0GB7-n2kff5mP8llEjUydm-xYyq7J1SYgKBK2fIe3q2wmzGNPtdeAV06MjXTb07zWxSE0/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-08_2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
~ We decluttered dd's toys a bit and that kept us busy for quite a while.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5bCTCx8QkQFFU4RIX_O_TN73PyHybfYaHJibHi7PUiwy1zRypyBzEAIGTjp6b2Ya8IjsGTsIBmvumy89M32woec4QgVAs8Ew_RcPYvtLheRS6hIAsY__7ZSS3hpT2Gbm8shfXMHT23W8/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-02.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5bCTCx8QkQFFU4RIX_O_TN73PyHybfYaHJibHi7PUiwy1zRypyBzEAIGTjp6b2Ya8IjsGTsIBmvumy89M32woec4QgVAs8Ew_RcPYvtLheRS6hIAsY__7ZSS3hpT2Gbm8shfXMHT23W8/s1600/Olivia+2014-11-02.jpg" height="240" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~ We went for a hike in the woods yesterday and returned to the train station before it got dark. But no trains were coming. So we waited for almost an hour in the cold and dark. BUT I had a lovely lady to talk with, and dd played with a boy of maybe 3 or 4 years who had a bicycle. They had so much fun. It was almost like having a personal babysitter. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Being on the train is often very easy, too, when someone is happily playing or otherwise communicating with dd. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~ We've been meeting up for a few months now with some other mothers and their children in a private play group, at different locations. We met on Friday and this time it was particularly good. It's always nice to see the "gang" but this time was special. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~ No bad/unpleasant situations this week that I recall. All good!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
~ Oh, and I finally created a <a href="https://www.facebook.com/continuummom?ref=aymt_homepage_panel">Facebook page</a> (please don't expect anything fancy!). All blogposts will be linked there to make following the blog via FB easy as pie!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-20480250797958061692014-11-05T18:50:00.004+01:002014-11-05T18:50:57.684+01:00Our CC week - part 2Some things that happened during the last weeks and I somehow forgot to mention them ...<br />
<br />
~ I get it now - children need CONTINUOUS activity. We had a really amazing day a while ago. We went to an English baby group in the a.m., then headed to the woods for a hike, and had a day filled with activities. I don't remember what we did but we were very busy all day long. At the end of the day we were totally worn out. You know the feeling when you're so tired that everything becomes funny? Dd and I got into a very silly mood and did the lift scene from "Dirty Dancing" a couple of times, always with tons of laughter. She ran towards me and I lift her up, turned around, and putting her down again. Over and over again. Oh dear!<br />
I totally got it then - you know all these situations with children which can be a real pain in the neck? When they aren't allowed to touch anything, need to keep quiet for a while, etc.? None of that came up on that day. It was just fantastic.<br />
Now I know why Alexsandra Burt told me that NVC etc. are certainly good tools, but if you're really in the continuum, you won't need any of that.<br />
I remember thinking, WOW, I really want to get to that place one day.<br />
And now we did! Thanks, Universe. <br />
<br />
~ It's easier than I thought to be outside in road traffic with dd. She mostly follows me, and if not, I wait for her to notice she's no longer following me, smile at her and then she usually hurrys up to catch up with me. She is still slow enough for me to hopefully be able to catch her easily should she ever have the idea to run into a car, etc. <br />
<br />
~ Feeding ducks has become a new activity for us.<br />
<br />
~ We had to go to the post office some days ago. There's a lot of stuff I don't want dd to touch, plus I kind of wanted her to stay in the queue. I put her down when she wanted to, and she magically simply wandered around a bit but always came back. It was so much easier than I thought.<br />
<br />
~ We had one situation when I met for lunch with an ex co-worker of mine. We went for a walk. It was a bit stressful for me to be there on time, and at one point I wanted to text my friend we couldn't make it. In the corporate world you get one hour for lunch (or less), but to be somewhere right on time with an active toddler can be difficult at times. Anyway. While my friend and I sat and ate, dd played a bit by herself around us, greeted people passing by, etc. We went for a short walk afterwards, and dd became fussy. At one point she cried and threw herself back in my arms, and I remembered not to engage with that behavior too much. Hm. I had to put her on the floor to put on the ring sling and she lay there crying for a moment.<br />
On the positive side, I did not feel embarrassed or insecure at all. I put on the ring sling, picked dd up and put her in the sling. She nursed a bit and things were back to normal. <br />
<br />
~ I met a really nice mother and her little boy at the post office and she asked about my ring sling. We agreed to meet up at my place so she could try my ring slings. I ended up borrowing her one of mine (I personally like to try things out before I finally buy something). So happy about that! We had a really nice chat and the children seemed to get along fine, too.<br />
The same day, I went shopping with dd and a pregnant lady asked me about the ring sling. Haha. I like the ring sling a lot, so I'm always happy to share my experiences. If you don't use them you can fold them and put them in your backpack/purse, and if you want to carry your child for a while they're quick to use. Love them!<br />
<br />
This post is longer than I planned it to be ....<br />
<br />
I'll conclude today's post by recommending this article to German speaking readers: <br />
<a href="http://www.zeit.de/2014/38/kindheit-deutschland-erziehung">http://www.zeit.de/2014/38/kindheit-deutschland-erziehung</a><br />
It's about why today's parents are better than any generation of parents before them (in contrast to what some German authors want us to believe - that today's parents are an incompetent bunch of insecure helicopter mothers and fathers).<br />
Based on scientific studies paired with common sense. <br />
This article really made my day. <br />
<br />Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-68108844882624297682014-11-02T14:46:00.000+01:002014-11-02T14:46:08.477+01:00Our CC weekThis is what happened last week: <br />
<br />
~ We finally bought a rear facing car seat for dd! We don't use the car with her very much so her growing out of her baby car seat was not so much of a problem.<br />
<br />
Perhaps some people know this but I certainly didn't before I came across that info online:<br />
<b>Children should be in a rear facing car seat until they are four years old. </b><br />
I had no idea this is so much safer!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHd5pRllCG9lm7Cil3Jd9yCsbM-pu_BmHvO1N-sYTs1RcYedHv1ynNx929M4iYAMHRTBtGfrOVzAy5D1KRjeJIeb1XUSK95WoySC-UyhKFXNLXBSdOsL7c-TmXwMOkmzWCDgFbF3bCg3M/s1600/maxi+cosi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHd5pRllCG9lm7Cil3Jd9yCsbM-pu_BmHvO1N-sYTs1RcYedHv1ynNx929M4iYAMHRTBtGfrOVzAy5D1KRjeJIeb1XUSK95WoySC-UyhKFXNLXBSdOsL7c-TmXwMOkmzWCDgFbF3bCg3M/s1600/maxi+cosi.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">source: http://www.kiddies24.de</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
~ Now that dd has learned how to walk properly she is working on speaking in actual words. So sweet! Things like: Yes, no, hi, good-bye, mommy, daddy, doggy, teddy, please, thank you (in German). <br />
<br />
~ Two days ago she looked at us very seriously and said something. She sounded somewhat said and hopeless. She repeated it over and over again. We really have no clue what it means. She speaks with tons of patience, the same thing over and over. We have guessed every meaning that came to mind. It sounds a bit like Elven language from Lord of the Rings to me. It sounded close to "switch light off" and "sad, too" (in German). <br />
<br />
~ I still enjoy LLL meet-ups a lot. I always learn something new or gain a new perspective on things I already know.<br />
<br />
~ We LOVE our time in the woods! We even saw a baby deer yesterday. <br />
<br />
~ I re-discovered CLEANING as a group activity. Our place looks quite nice right now! I spoke to hubby today about how I find it important to know how to clean something best. It sounds so boring and unimportant. Still, I remember my friends and I starting out at university with some of us not really knowing how to do certain things. I never really had to clean in our home (everything else I had to help with), so I only had a vague idea on how to approach cleaning. What products to use, how often, how to remove certain stains from clothes, etc.<br />
It sounds almost ridiculous but I find it very liberating to be able to take care of one's own place after moving out of the parents' house.<br />
I know our mothers/stepmothers/etc. only wanted the best for us, so most of us did not have to help with daily chores. Clean clothes simply showed up in the closet after a while.<br />
I find it more valuable though to know how to do this myself. Which is why I'll happily clean in front of dd so she can see how it's done. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-81269041700452523752014-10-27T23:11:00.001+01:002014-10-27T23:13:44.781+01:00Our CC weekThis week was fun because ...<br />
<br />
... it was my dad's birthday, and we spent some days at his place to celebrate with him.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOD-oq3N1lrO055zPOsepcfwbG5ZuniKMRHF4qGibIjnsnrvGY1eqcfXE59CCG-CxFnJsRYKqF6H_k31x4AZj9el9tDqL3sObeo7-CxI3CkQ9LQlPvqvjQCreSAABdF8Wis9B-glgRVRo/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-25_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOD-oq3N1lrO055zPOsepcfwbG5ZuniKMRHF4qGibIjnsnrvGY1eqcfXE59CCG-CxFnJsRYKqF6H_k31x4AZj9el9tDqL3sObeo7-CxI3CkQ9LQlPvqvjQCreSAABdF8Wis9B-glgRVRo/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-25_3.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dd helping me to pack a parcel</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
~ Dd is a real bundle of joy. At least most of the time. It's rare for her not to be a happy-smily-yay little girl. Which, in turn, makes me a happy mother, at least most of the time!<br />
<br />
~ She greets everyone outside with a loud "hi!!!!!" and a big smile. Oh my goodness. She loves people. <br />
<br />
~ It's still weird for me to carry her so little outside. She weighs 11kg (approx. 24 pounds) now. I still love carrying my little one. I mostly carry her in arms when we are going for a walk. Some seconds are enough for her to recover, and then she almost jumps down on her own.<br />
<br />
~ Hubby and dd went to a zoo for the first time. They were gone for FOUR hours. She has never been away from me for that long. They both enjoyed it so much. They were so much in love when they came home! Hubby said several times he will always remember that day. They enjoyed it so much, and it was the first time they did something on their own (other than a longer walk).<br />
<br />
~ Gosh, I really dislike clipping dd's nails. Or rather how much she
hates it. I have to clip them often because she has atopic eczema and
scratches herself often. Sometimes it goes really well, especially if
someone or something distracts dd a bit. Sometimes not at all. It's easier if I put her in front of the tv / youtube - everything's better than having a crying toddler and try to clip the fingernails. <br />
<br />
~
Washing her hair is easy compared to clipping nails. I only rinse her
hair with water every now and then, and I do it quickly. She's not a big
fan but it's over before she can complain about it. <br />
<br />
~
Forgot to mention that when we were at my mother's house, I left her
with my mother to take some parcels to the post office two days in a
row. She stayed with her just fine, and both times I came home and they
were both napping. Haha. Very sweet! Dd cried the first time when I
left, but it did feel ok and I heard how she stopped crying some seconds
later. The second time she gave me a big smile and waved good bye. This
was the first time I left her with someone other than my husband. I was
only gone for 20-30mins but still. <br />
<br />
~ Dd lost one shoe while climbing up the stairs to our apartment. She called for me and the way she "spoke" and acted, I KNEW she had lost her shoe. I went back and there it was, some steps below her. I was surprised how well the communication worked, through a mixture of actual verbal language, gestures, context and telepathy. She did not actually say "Mommy, I lost my shoe", but it was obvious to me that this was what she meant to express. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-62307128435851583642014-10-18T17:05:00.000+02:002014-10-18T22:40:57.605+02:00Our CC week<br />
~ Dd and I had to spend a week at my mother's place (hubby was so sick he wanted our apartment for himself).<br />
Whoa! You know how family can be. I've somehow gotten through this. I'm kidding, but seriously, it's not always easy for me to be with my own mother. BUT my mother has a dog, and the dog and dd really became friends. The dog discovered that dd loves to feed him, and whoever feeds him is his new best friend. Dd discovered that the dog is quite interesting and loves to eat whatever food she throws up in the air. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh15bR0VStHwrQLf_VgqvGrxxuoLc7pgadd8Ze4L3-aUlGlOOnSHDumxx3spVk5MNma8hJXFL7yiAyHU6GyR4YZ1VeOM9HhjmRhsxQxzlNXvUZXVZktcZ9Di0uJ9RwMnUG_kt6995gXd0/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-16_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh15bR0VStHwrQLf_VgqvGrxxuoLc7pgadd8Ze4L3-aUlGlOOnSHDumxx3spVk5MNma8hJXFL7yiAyHU6GyR4YZ1VeOM9HhjmRhsxQxzlNXvUZXVZktcZ9Di0uJ9RwMnUG_kt6995gXd0/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-16_2.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Us playing (for lack of a better activity). I build something bridge-like, put plastic cups on it, and threw little objects until all plastic cups were on the floor. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAvtPkNlvpl1A02Q4tOsOTeyd943kkvw1WZJHHeH_WIDMfqUDAwyNUaS6sQCZKacpG9orDaHJBN2EgUa6IuiY8DjLH5yzkT2KNUsDjtHs0G8IBgPuM6tv8sClBS04IR0bNqGjx9dEKx8/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-15_9c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLAvtPkNlvpl1A02Q4tOsOTeyd943kkvw1WZJHHeH_WIDMfqUDAwyNUaS6sQCZKacpG9orDaHJBN2EgUa6IuiY8DjLH5yzkT2KNUsDjtHs0G8IBgPuM6tv8sClBS04IR0bNqGjx9dEKx8/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-15_9c.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dd on one of our little hikes in nature</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmVwfOFItn7Oqnv2RqA2fJdq58VVrZVWphhZKSr5xXxZBpRCi51-L2S464TY-bXWs3c9k_caAjrI1-sTkXGj7yEazvM0zq_m8q5anyS49bFmtt9RPdP1_XsNfmITWNUcbfp5oWZokgtQ/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-16_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXmVwfOFItn7Oqnv2RqA2fJdq58VVrZVWphhZKSr5xXxZBpRCi51-L2S464TY-bXWs3c9k_caAjrI1-sTkXGj7yEazvM0zq_m8q5anyS49bFmtt9RPdP1_XsNfmITWNUcbfp5oWZokgtQ/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-16_6.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dd dancing with a dancing dog (he moves his ears and plays a song. Horrible, if you ask me, but dd loves this thing)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsaMn7hTB8vnfpz9d64hsAsrvalUigVN_hdrmmT1x89HaG3pKQCkUJID0vsafGJos7RUeGw6yFVsWTsvWXNt2WlhCYgHS3QKa6Ld82B5boFLPe2gKQEmGFQ6qOCI12ETrrVT5jsFVUxo/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-16_9c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsaMn7hTB8vnfpz9d64hsAsrvalUigVN_hdrmmT1x89HaG3pKQCkUJID0vsafGJos7RUeGw6yFVsWTsvWXNt2WlhCYgHS3QKa6Ld82B5boFLPe2gKQEmGFQ6qOCI12ETrrVT5jsFVUxo/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-16_9c.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My mother and my daughter :-)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
~ I went to see my own grandmother. She said that she would still learn so much about parenting FROM ME. Yes, she really said that, after having raised two sons and four grandchildren (we spent tons of time at her place). She's 90 years old now. She admitted she had been worried about dd and myself being too close, and that dd would never want to separate from me.<br />
When my youngest sister told her how happily dd played with everyone at the playground last time we went there, my grandmother was very relieved. When dd was born she told me to let her cry, and let her sleep on her own. I know she really meant well. I admire that at 90 years, she is still flexible enough to change her mind on things! She said that all the co-sleeping and baby-wearing seem to have worked well for us. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-49573966381138891632014-10-18T16:08:00.002+02:002014-10-18T16:08:59.290+02:00Our CC weekA bit late but here it goes ....<br />
<br />
~ Taking public transit is so much easier now. Not sure why. A couple of times I sat down with her, and she did not move or fuss in the wrap. If she did, it was just a bit, and I just got up etc. Not much was necessary to keep dd happy. <br />
<br />
A dear mommy friend and I went for a hike out of the city with the little ones. It was so easy to take the train/bus with them.<br />
We went on the same trip some months ago and were both covered in sweat (and it only takes us 16mins to get there) before we even started the hike. It was quite a bit of work to keep the children happy, and at some point I felt very humble. It's hard to act cool when a very fussy toddler tries to get off your lap and run through the train.<br />
So I was very pleased how easy it was this time. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipojZdRopwzgLfWBuhZhXxSicfbS2p4QPFCiyLGW1_mb9k4_9M17kusW1nLuc1HPrIj-ba1Rvzt20yuvgtTO-FZAC3SihQ1dZj7W1NyomzX1fly0sRbyGx2-9jove2ODYJZJTENZbELDE/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-11_11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipojZdRopwzgLfWBuhZhXxSicfbS2p4QPFCiyLGW1_mb9k4_9M17kusW1nLuc1HPrIj-ba1Rvzt20yuvgtTO-FZAC3SihQ1dZj7W1NyomzX1fly0sRbyGx2-9jove2ODYJZJTENZbELDE/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-11_11.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dd exploring the path before of us.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR8KBmj8s5whGS0GlXxYw011CtyqxEv1uMf_DNMZS7ZwrKt6aV_WdZbDMP90ae7glCtNTxklTKRlUvoi8ZfJsvhtCWjOmm6HxxbN74F0FJh1fsQoqM8g6aLpcfUiyx4wcNKZCAHdcAvU/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-11_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizR8KBmj8s5whGS0GlXxYw011CtyqxEv1uMf_DNMZS7ZwrKt6aV_WdZbDMP90ae7glCtNTxklTKRlUvoi8ZfJsvhtCWjOmm6HxxbN74F0FJh1fsQoqM8g6aLpcfUiyx4wcNKZCAHdcAvU/s1600/Olivia+2014-10-11_12.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Some older boys passing by.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
~ Diaper changes are a breeze by now. Sometimes I ask her to come to me and then she comes and I change her diapers.<br />
<br />
~ Dd has still been crawling a lot but now (at 15 months) is walking to get from A to B. It was October 10 (as a first-time mother I had to write that down) that for the first time ever, she walked home by herself. It felt awkward not to carry her. I was not prepared for that. Anyway, our in-arms-phase has definitely come to an end now. <br />
<br />
~ She can be so charming. Waving good bye, smiling at people, etc. I see so many happy faces when we meet new people. <br />
<br />
~ She does some sort of wild dance when she hears the theme song of "Big Bang Theory" (the only tv we watch - I do my best to limit tv). She also danced with my mother when we went to a big department store and there was some lovely music playing. <br />
<br />
~ We had to see an ophthalmologist and it was fuss-free.<br />
<br />
~ Dd looked at the reflection of her hand on the metal tab in our bath tub. I believe she starts to realize it's her own hand. <br />
<br />
~ A bit OT, but things are so much better with hubby. We had some arguments and were a bit stressed a while ago. It's nice to feel the love again. <br />
<br />
~ <b>Dd fell off the couch</b>. Ouch. I saw her sitting on the very edge of our couch and turned around to use the laptop quickly. Then I heard her hit the floor. Ouch again. Not sure if I unconsciously expected her to fall. In any case, it reminded me to keep positive pictures in my mind to create positive expectations. Expecting her to stay on the couch, etc. <br />
<br />
~ Thansk to CC consultant Alexsandra Burt, I discovered the <b>power of heartmath</b>. Too much to write it all down, maybe in another blog post. I felt very calm and centered. I believe I even had more positive experiences!<br />
<br />
~ And also re-discovered the <b>power of direct speech</b>. I was carrying dd on my back and she started to fuss. I normally take her out then. This time though, I asked her if she could stay there for another moment until I finish whatever I was doing. She became very calm and just sat there. Sometimes direct speech works so well, it's almost scary. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-69924532485179081712014-10-05T22:21:00.000+02:002014-10-05T22:21:11.995+02:00Our CC week~ Lesson of the week: ALWAYS bring a ring sling.<br />
We went to a babywearing meet-up and as a total first-time-mother I thought the little hike in the beginning would consist of a continuous walk. Haha! Dd (15 months) was by far the youngest child, and we stopped all the time so the older kids could explore the beautiful park. Which resulted in me wrapping her, then taking her out, wrapping her again, taking her out, wrapping her .... you get the picture. I normally always have BOTH a ring sling and a longer wrap with me, just in case. For long walks (sometimes dd falls asleep and I just walk by myself) I prefer the wrap because a ring sling hurts one shoulder after a while. For shorter periods of time, the ring sling is just so much quicker. Oh well, next time.<br />
<br />
~ On that same hike, I started to take a little pride in my trust in dd's abilities to watch out for herself. Several times someone warned me about dd being about to fall. The sweetest was a Turkish (?) father of two who seemed genuinely concerned about dd falling down a slide. By now I pretty much know that sometimes she crawls / walks somewhere quickly, but stops when she has to. I've rarely ever seen her being incautious, at least not that I recall. It's a really empowering feeling. <br />
<br />
~ We watched a documentary about Thor Heyerdahl, the big adventurer who sailed from Latin America to the Philippines with nothing but a raft and a small crew. I had heard his name before but wasn't aware of his accomplishments, especially in experimental archeology. I couldn't help but find an analogy to the CC when they explained how he build the raft, based on old knowledge from the ancient cultures he studied. Everyone advised him not to do it as it was obviously a very dangerous endeavor, but he trusted his instincts and did it anyway. He trusted that if it had been working for people centuries ago, he could repeat their experiences (and he successfully arrived in the Philippines after more than 100 days, with the entire crew alive). How cool was he? Simply figuring it must work, but having no example of something similar in his current life, and just trusting the process.<br />
<br />
- Just a detail, but nail clipping went really well today. Dd was half asleep and nursing, and didn't mind me clipping her nails at all. Normally I try to be as gentle and quick as I can, but she often fights it and it's not exactly a fun moment for her. <br />
<br />
~ We went out for lunch on my mom's birthday, and dd was really easy to be around. She sat in her chair, on my lap, and my husband took her out for a little walk. Even the ride there was easy. My mom was sitting next to her in the car, and judging by the grandmother & baby laughter in the back of the car, they both had fun.<br />
<br />
~ This isn't specifically something I wanted to mention for this week, but I wanted to write it down anyway: Brushing teeth is always fun for us as dd virtually begs us to give her her toothbrush. She "brushes" her teeth herself and hands me her toothbrush to clean as soon as I clean mine. I will be careful to never mention to her that most children don't like brushing their teeth. I always act like it's a big treat. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-6306604372666350492014-09-27T16:03:00.002+02:002014-09-27T16:03:52.595+02:00Our CC weekI will try to blog once per week, which I should be able to do consistently.<br />
<br />
The last few days, I found the following situations interesting in terms of TCC:<br />
<br />
- We were in a park with large stairs. Dd wanted down so I took her out of the sling, put her down, and kept on walking (very slowly). She came down the stairs on her own, with caution and lots of focus on her movements. Two old ladies stopped and asked if dd was already able to get down the stairs herself. <br />
I chose to be as honest as I could and said that I don't actually know, because this was the first time we really tried this. But that I have come to know dd as a cautious and and rather adept child so I wouldn't worry. It was nice to see how the old ladies trusted my judgement on this one. Plus dd was obviously fine and made it down the stairs all by herself. <br />
<br />
- We get longer and longer stretches of sleep at night. We even had a night where we both must have slept 10 hours without any interruption. At least I don't remember any and my breast were full of milk in the morning, so it seems dd didn't nurse at night. Most often we sleep 5-6 hours in a row these days. <br />
Dd naps once per day, mostly in the afternoon for around 2 hours on average. <br />
<br />
- I tried a new ruck cross carry and find it very comfortable as dd's weigth is mostly on the chest pass and not so much on the shoulders. Dd must weigh around 21 dounds at the moment (almost 10kg) so I am probably lucky to have a rather light toddler. <br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-R5-j3pEZJZyp1R__CuZ7uE0qbBCsUhg655epzccVhqJ-DrmcNsFI6RoOPzcfIk0_ZWEXRwFY2fPzBxd3ChOArkBk74oDL5GAxtUIHchUhf_Ac0LEezfG8zhzlGYaJaYgaHVRL-fTJXg/s1600/wickelkreuzrucksack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-R5-j3pEZJZyp1R__CuZ7uE0qbBCsUhg655epzccVhqJ-DrmcNsFI6RoOPzcfIk0_ZWEXRwFY2fPzBxd3ChOArkBk74oDL5GAxtUIHchUhf_Ac0LEezfG8zhzlGYaJaYgaHVRL-fTJXg/s1600/wickelkreuzrucksack.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">stillen-und-tragen.de (thanks so the mother who uploaded this beautiful Picture!)<br />
<br />
<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
- I joined the facebook group "wrap jedis" and recommend it, tons of fun, and there is a lot of good advice on all the different carries. I love woven wraps for their versatility, and this group shows me a lot of new carries I can try.<br />
<br />
- We went to our monthly cloth diaper meet-up, and dd climbed up the stairs to a little wooden house. She called for me when she wanted down. Which made me realize that she knows that she cannot do it herself yet (especially with lots of other children walking up and down the same small stairs). It's important to know that!<br />
<br />
- Oh and an older boy beat her up. :-( When she was up in the house she suddenly started to cry and I was up there two nanoseconds later and pulled the boy off her. He totally did it on purpose and tried to hurt her. Seriously, seeing that broke my heart. Dd was fine some seconds later but I took it really hard! I need to watch out for her more when other children are around. <br />
<br />
- I'm grateful for another little boy who just turned 3, and they are so sweet together. They make each other laugh, have lots of fun, and he often watches out for her. I've seen him tell other kids to take good care because she's still a baby. Heartwarming. <br />
<br />
- I think that three hours of time spent ouside daily are a good compromise for us at the moment. It's a good base for dd and what I can do realistically on a daily basis. <br />
<br />
- I have gotten a little better at doing my daily activities with dd. It's not always super easy to find an age-appropriate way for her to join in. But we're getting there. I'm having another skype session on this specifically with Alexsandra Burt tonight. How to keep dd happy inside.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-80071705450609203752014-09-08T15:21:00.002+02:002014-09-08T15:21:38.904+02:00Consulting session #4 with Alexsandra BurtI've been wanting to write this blog post for a while now. Weeks have gone by since we've had our fourth session.<br />
<br />
Every time I feel so relieved, reassured, and understood.<br />
<br />
This time we spoke about some issues I have when we are inside a lot.<br />
<br />
The most important message was: <b>Carry on joyously what you're doing</b>!<br />
<br />
Quite often, I let myself get distracted by dd complaining or making unhappy sounds. Ok, <i>every</i> time I get distracted by that. I wonder if I did something wrong, why we're not in the continuum, and what not. <br />
<br />
I practiced that a lot - just carrying on what I was doing. It was easy because I no longer feel bad if she complains a little. I just try to find a way she can help me with what I'm doing, or I find something she can do (things she has forgotten about), or I take her outside (that is almost guaranteed to work). Pretty much what I did before, but without beating myself up!<br />
<br />
We talked about so much else, but this was the most important message for me this time.<br />
<br />
Not to try so hard, but enjoy more. Not to take frustration over something dd cannot get to work right away for unhappiness. Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-73468120499231097242014-09-01T18:09:00.001+02:002014-09-01T18:09:46.855+02:00Humor and joySome days ago I asked hubby if I should hold dd while he is doing chores at night (aering the room, packing his bag for the next day).<br />
<br />
His reply was: "We're fully in the continuum, please don't disturb!".<br />
<br />
I had a really good laugh.<br />
<br />
He has a way of using the things I talk about in little jokes a few days later. I had told him about doing all our daily activities with dd, and apparently he got the message. <br />
<br />
I had fun today, too, making fun of myself. It helps me to lighten up when I take this entire parenting thing too seriously.<br />
<br />
A famous parenting author talks about how we should be "light houses" for our children.<br />
<br />
I washed my hands and dd wanted to be picked up, and I wanted to finish washing my hands. Dd was grumbling a little and I said "Common, I'm the light house here". Had to laugh about my own joke and dd laughed with me.<br />
<br />
<br />Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8759496589808428715.post-53277937893874332802014-08-29T18:04:00.001+02:002014-08-29T18:04:31.583+02:00Quick note on afternoon napsWhile dd was napping, I went to the bathroom to wash my hair. She woke up while I was still busy, and cried a bit. But for the first time today, she just got up and looked for me!<br />
<br />
Normally she stays in bed crying (and I never really know why, she's not exactly shy to look for us in any other situation).<br />
<br />
Happy!Continuum Momhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12890198513837997819noreply@blogger.com0