VIP MAGAZINE PARENTING COLUMN 1
Well getting back into a routine after Christmas has been far more difficult that I imagined. In fairness James napped when he felt like it and stayed up late as I was staying in Mums and he quickly learnt that if I said no, there was always a willing aunty or nana to say yes. Jellies are his favourite word, food, pastime and all round current obsession. If we see a shop or god forbid go into one, a tantrum starting off mild ending quite dramatic is guaranteed. You might say he’s like his mother, on the drama front I mean although I do like jellies myself.
I have come to realize I actually do like a routine and had a very nice one. I have also learnt the art of saying no (admittedly to a toddler) and it feels good. Jellies for 2013 are for Sundays, porridge is for breakfast and from here on in James will sleep in his cot and not on my head. It has been amazing to watch just how fast kids adapt and take advantage of a bit of leniency. It really proves how important our job as parents are. I struggle with the parent/friend situation, as I really don’t want my two year old to hate me. As I write that sentence I realize how stupid it sounds but I’m just being honest. Dropping James at crèche today was bliss after I set boundaries. He even said thank you for driving me (yes that was weird and made me suspicious). A very wise woman once said to me: your job is to create boundaries and their job is to push them. It’s nice to know that the natural order of things is alive and kicking in our house.
I love January in the same way I love Monday. A time for new beginnings and fresh starts. Your world is how you see it so change your view and how you look at things. You’ll be amazed at the difference it makes. Have a great day, week, month and of course year!
It’s Great Being Little by Nita Fitzgerald
‘I don’t want to be little,’ Susie tells her granny. ‘I want to be BIG.’
‘What?’ says Granny. ‘But It’s GREAT being little. Why, you can do all sorts of things …’
A charming, beautifully illustrated story for little people who just can’t wait to be big!
€7.99
The Boob nursing and maternity wear range is made from organic cotton making them incredibly soft. They also have a clever design with a double layer of fabric over the bust which can be easily lifted with one hand allowing for discreet and comfortable nursing making Boob one of the best selling breastfeeding clothes brand in Europe! www.cherishme.ie nursing hoodie €69
ASK ALISON:
Hi Alison,
It’s the new year and I would like to get fit and healthy. I have just had a baby so what would you recommend? I have also had issues with depression and I’m nervous with the January blues that are inevitable can I do anything to help prevent those sad days.
Thanks Aine, Dublin
Hi Aine,
I’m delighted you started that question off with the word healthy. Healthy should always be your goal for body and mind. A great way to do this is to do Mom and baby Yoga to bond with your baby and prepare your body and mind for motherhood. Mom & Baby Yoga will focus on gentle exercises to restore your shape and physical well-being after child birth, teaching you fun ways to turn exercises into infant engagement and infant stimulation. Mom & Baby Yoga will also strengthen your pelvic floor and abdominal muscles and teach you breathing techniques to help you stay calm and present in new situations. Danielle Donnelly is currently doing these classes in Dalkey. She teaches pranayama (breath work) and meditation, incorporating her passion of chakras and energy work. Danielle’s classes are uplifting and balancing, getting a good mix of relaxation and rejuvenation. Now I think that’s just what the doctor ordered for the January blues. danielle@yogaenergy.ie
FOR MUM:
This Akin eye day gel to help with post Christmas dark circles! €25.40
FOR BABY:
Love this Mothercare much loved playmat €64.99
THIS FORTNIGHT WE ARE:
Going to see Tuesdays with Morrie in the gaiety and if you haven’t read the book it’s a must read also KEEPING a journal of five things we’re grateful for every day. Try it for 21 days and watch what happens?? TAKING the kids to see Rise of the Guardians for anyone who believes in the easter bunny, the sandman, the tooth fairy, jack frost and of course Santa in their fight against the boogie man cleverly named Pitch Black! BOOKING a stand at a www.babybaymarket.ie to sell our old baby goods to declutter and make some extra cash after Christmas.