| The MOAT Blog by Kay Wyma

Occupation: Mom

by Kay | May 13, 2014 | ... on life, Purposeful Parenting

It could happen in the most unlikely of places. For me it was at the YMCA signing up one of the kids for an activity. “Occupation?” the young man behind a computer screen asked. “Uhmmmm…” I stammered. I didn’t know what to say. I...

A Mother’s Day Prayer

by Kay | May 9, 2014 | ... on life, Purposeful Parenting

“Is Mother’s Day on Sunday or Monday,” my youngest pipes from the far back of the car this morning. He’s been asking me about Mother’s Day for at least a week now. I’m thankful to his teacher, who I’m sure has been reminding...

Unlikely Tell-Tale Signs of a Safe Home

by Kay | Apr 11, 2014 | ... on life, Purposeful Parenting

“I would never do that at school or at church!” He had just relieved himself of a little gas. And, since he was sitting on one of our metal stools at the kitchen island, it was loud and unmistakable. Still, he tried to blame it on something else. But...

“Speak Softly … & less”, Plus 8 other Tips for Talking to Teens

by Kay | Apr 2, 2014 | ... on life, Laughter, Purposeful Parenting, Uncategorized

“How was lunch?” I ask, venturing into conversation with one of my teens who isn’t much into conversing with parents these days. He had just come from lunch with one of his professors… a Saturday lunch. “Fine.” “What did you...

Life’s Puzzles

by Kay | Mar 27, 2014 | ... on life, Purposeful Parenting

We can’t seem to stop with the puzzles around here. They started during our staycation and have remained as the go-to boredom reliever du jour. Last year it was Mexican Trains. I’m not sure which I like better. So when I’m-Bored tickled my ears the...

My name is Kay

by Kay | Mar 14, 2014 | Laughter, Purposeful Parenting

It’s always fun to get an article in the New York Times Motherlode, which I did today. I hope you will read it and let me know if this bugs you too. It could have been a menopausal, oversensitive moment – and I adore and respect the person who inspired the...