January
Do you want to know something really amusing? I have no idea why I am writing this book, posting this blog, or working out how to make it a vlog or podcast. The idea originally stemmed from a conversation with a friend of ours, a child counsellor, yet it sparked a few embers in my mind.
I need to make a few points very clear, now, right from the beginning.
This IS NOT a self-help manual.
This IS NOT a guide on how to be a parent.
This IS NOT a guide on how to be a better parent.
This IS NOT full of chapters with detailed instructions on how to survive your life in parenthood.
I want to say it isn't going to take you out of a bad situation and put you in a great one, however, I can't actually know if those words will turn out to be true. You might read it and gain an amazing insight, decide to try a different method of approach when faced with a problem, or say, "At least I'm not the only one."
The change of tactics could solve it, or overcome an obstacle in your life. It happens. Perhaps, although again I can't be certain, knowing you are not alone will be enough.
You may feel less lost.
You may realise it isn't only you and your world. There are others.
The grass isn't always greener, and, this part is true, we all hide it from each other. We do. The school playground, the chat in town, or the posts on social media. We smile, we tell everyone we're okay, life is good, life is great. Not always the truth, though, is it? More often than not, it's easier to put on the mask than show the real face.
I probably, almost-definitely-but-can't-be-sure, had the idea of this format for the project during the month of December.
A whole year. A whole account of one year in the life of a family. The wonderful beyond your wildest dreams, and the worst, most frustrating, upsetting times.
Thank you, reader, in advance, if you join me.
Excerpt from the 10th of March ...
Side note. All I hear about at the moment is the coronavirus. I'm not worrying, not yet, although it has struck nearby, if the news is to be believed. Apparently, local supermarkets have been cleared of certain items as well. The panic buying has already begun. Sometimes, it's difficult to keep the worries away.
Excerpt from the 30th of March ...
I believe the world will be more altruistic once we have battled through the virus. All the humanitarian acts of kindness, all the support, all the community strength, they will remain with people. I try to live an altruistic life, and it can be so rewarding, even addictive. Humanity will remember how it felt to help others, how it felt to change the life of someone with even a moment of thought and care.
