Tag Archives: softness

I am NOT the Same Parent I Used to Be

Just as my children have grown and changed over the years, I know that I too have changed quite a bit. Sure, there are some core values that have remained but parenting has changed me. Other life adventures have had their way with my personality and personal skills as well, but I think it is important to acknowledge that I am so not the same parent I started out as all those years ago. I think we have a tendency to think that our children have changed and we have “always been the same” or that when we reach adulthood, … Continue reading →

Talk Softly…And They Might Listen

For some reason, we parents have a tendency to think that if we just talk louder or get “more up in their face” our kids might actually hear us and respond. I have found just the opposite to be true. If I can stay calm and talk softly and surely, my kids are much more likely to listen and stay open and receptive than if I rant and yell and get forceful with them. Many years ago, my sister-in-law shared with me that she had discovered that instead of nagging, if she quietly asked her kids to do something, and … Continue reading →

Sparkly Princess Theme Room

Use lots of glitter and sparkle to make a room that your little princess will find truly enchanting. Start by creating a mural on the first wall that is visible as you enter the room. Don’t worry! Murals are not as difficult to create as you might think (see my article on painting murals for more information). All you have to do is find a picture of a castle. One with a simple design, such as those found in preschool level coloring books, would be perfect. Freehand it if you can, or project the image onto the wall (projectors are … Continue reading →

Home Decor: Opposites Attract

Sometimes when we decorate, or redecorate our homes, we get carried away trying to match everything perfectly. A soft white or pastel room doesn’t have to include only soft elements and light colors. Adding a deeply contrasting piece such as a dark brown or black picture frame, lamp, or shelf, will make the room much more interesting. Intersperse other strong, dark items throughout the space. The same is true of rooms that use deep or dark colors. Lighter brighter elements, accessories, or pieces of furniture will add even more drama to the space while keeping it from feeling so heavy. … Continue reading →