The things that make being a parent do-able for me are the things that have been impossible: Kiddo play-dates, coffee dates, ‘therapy runs’ with my running group, hugs… You may be saying “duh, Lauren- it’s a global pandemic. No playdates and no hugs allowed.” But I’m missing interacting with my community in the same way, and I’m guessing I’m not alone in that.

At my core, I’m a process-thinking, systematic, analytic thinker…and generally, that isn’t the kind of thinking that works for parenting. I often think in lists or calculations. Parenting two young kiddos has taught me to go-with-the flow. My parenting approach is generally the following (to simplify):

• Say “yes” when you can
• Say “no” when it’s unsafe or will cause likely chaos in the future
• Say “I love you” and “you’re awesome” and “I like spending time with you”, etc. as much as is possible without evoking eye rolls (and often beyond that point)
• Encourage curiosity, value in working-hard, helping others, being kind, and a commitment to ‘contribute’ in a way that aligns with your true self.

I get it wrong. A lot. You may look at the list above and think “Again, Lauren, duh – your approach is all wrong!” Fair. But it’s what I’ve got and it’s what I’m going with.

Our family motto through this climate has quickly become “teamwork makes the dream work”. It started as a totally sarcastic sentiment. But we are realizing that we can all be helpers. We can all do something to make the world kinder, brighter, more welcoming. That’s my dream for The Third Piggie –that we can help each other. That we find and provide comfort and hope. I’m excited to learn from and share with you.

With Grit. Grace. Gratitude. Generosity.