It was a mistake to watch the last episode of the final season of Never Have I Ever on the eve of my son’s high school graduation as he prepares to move 3000 miles away across the country in his evolution from Enloe Eagle to Oregon Duck. I am left wondering how my own parents … [Read more...] about Class of 2023 – The Real Deal
parenting
Just Let Me Take the Pictures
Dear Deal, In this season of new beginnings, just let me take the pictures. You squirm with visible impatience while irritation brims over, but understand that as you, forever my baby boy, close doors behind you, I am left in the wake of a new normal. And it’s exactly the … [Read more...] about Just Let Me Take the Pictures
Immigrant Christmas Spirit
I remember the mauve-ish pink knee socks for me and the white tube socks for my brother. We didn’t have stockings so my mother went to our dresser drawers and pulled out those socks. I recall feeling a bit off that we now had socks with no match. Even as a child, I was a … [Read more...] about Immigrant Christmas Spirit
Reliably Unconditional Love or Unconditionally Reliable Love
How do I show I love to my sons? There are so many ways. Showing up and being someone my teens can rely on is chief among them. Take a few minutes to watch this snippet about one way I showed up when my son needed me. And yes, it was a proud mom moment to support kids who … [Read more...] about Reliably Unconditional Love or Unconditionally Reliable Love
Happy 19th Birthday, Bird!
Happy Birthday, Bird! I carried you literally, and I'll carry you always. I made the mistake of listening to the playlist I made you for your high school graduation. Loves Me Like a Rock came on, and I got teary. I’ve always been a weepy person, but motherhood has really … [Read more...] about Happy 19th Birthday, Bird!
Happy 17th Birthday to Deal
He stands more than a head taller than I, his locks buzzed close to his head and bleached blond, ears pierced with silver studs, and an old Indian Rupee hanging around his neck. Fun fact: I too dabbled in blond when I was his age. Let’s just say he is far cooler than I ever … [Read more...] about Happy 17th Birthday to Deal
Nurture Purpose in Teens
My son is 16 and embarking on his next chapter to figure out how to navigate the college application process. So far it's all about achievements rather than character, and purpose is measured in empirical terms. I think purpose is about lifelong learning and curiosity, not about … [Read more...] about Nurture Purpose in Teens