Do more of what makes you happy

Hello there,

Last week I wrote about my friend's psychic telling me to do more of what makes my heart sing, to do what makes me happy.  What sage advice!  Maybe you find that to be an inspiring reminder too.  I might write about this topic for awhile, because it does seem like the best thing I can do for myself these days...

This is a loaded week for me because it includes the day my mother died- Hallow's eve.  Really it's the very early part of Nov 1, but Halloween is the marker.  Growing up I had a stepmother, but she was not a kind, nurturing or attentive replacement.  To put it plainly, my childhood was void of affection. My brother and I had our basic shelter, food and clothing needs met, but no love from the mother figure of the house.  There was no baking with the warm, delicious smells filling the house. There was no cuddling.  I certainly did not confide my secrets to my stepmother; I didn't even go to her when I was hurt.

I find now, as a healthy Single Momista, that much of my parenting is the opposite of what I was raised in.  It involves cuddling, snuggling, playing, listening, guiding.  Basically, I parent my son (el Sonno) the way I needed and wanted to be parented during my own childhood.  It's not always easy to navigate healthy parenting from a lack of experience (reading tons of parenting books is helpful) and I invent much of my parenting up as I go along.  But the most amazing part, along with my great relationship I have with el Sonno is that I am nurtured by being the mother I lacked as a child.  And this certainly makes my heart sing.  

So to feel more of that happy heart, this morning I made muffins.  And wow, does my apartment smell good!  Later, when el Sonno returns from his dad's house, we will bake cupcakes in honor of my mother for Halloween.  Orange and black and spooky and delicious.  Sadness, joy, laughter and nurturing all mixed together in a warm kitchen.  We baked muffins and brownies last week and we both loved it, so we are doing it again with cupcakes!  Repeat the happiness.  Do more of what makes you happy.

XO
Single Momista