Robert Grady: Having a big family is happiness

Posted by: Dos | Jun-17-2008 | File Under: Articles, What is Happiness?

For Robert Grady, the more the merrier. After all he have nine children with ages from 18 years to 7 weeks old. Together with his wife Debra, they originally planned to have 12 kids. She actually gave birth to 10 children but unfortunately, one died during infancy.Robert never actually grew in a big family. His fascination to have kids was inspired by his uncle in Indiana who have 12 kids. “It was a big Catholic family. I was so impressed with the family, I thought it would be nice to have one.” he said.

He like to do things with his whole family.. Even though he is a registered nurse in the intensive care unit of San Juan Regional Medical Center in Flora Vista, he was blessed to work for long hours which he can have four days off in a weeks. He spends his free time with his family wisely by going to the grocery together, sports events or late night movie watching at home.

The only thing Robert is concerned is the trend nowadays -that is happening to the whole world – that people often disregard having a big family with concerns with the economic and financial situations.

Even though food and oil prices are rising in dramatical heights everyday, Robert is optimistic and does not worry about the future. He believes that his faith in God will provide for his family abundantly.

8 ways to be a happier mom

Posted by: Dos | Jun-3-2008 | File Under: Articles, Science

When a woman bores a child, she will say that she’s happier. Yes, motherhood is probably the most significant stage in a woman’s life but contrary to this, psychologists who believe that this stage has actually a negative effect for the woman.Peter Ubel, M.D, a professor of medicine and psychology at the University of Michigan said that from moment to moment, a woman may feel exhausted, frustrated or sometimes angry because of the kids. Expert Daniel Gilbert agrees, he said that kids bring joy but sometimes they are not the ones who brings happiness. In a survey, moms derive less pleasure in eating, exercising or even relaxing on a sofa while watching T.V. as they focus their attention more in taking good care of their children. No matter how hard and tiring the mom’s works are, they will do everything just for their kids.

Appreciating and cherishing what you do is the first good step for a happier mother. Here’s how:

1. Admit when you’re stressed

Dr Ubel made motherhood an easy life when he explained that it’s okay to feel frustrated, angry, or irritable sometimes. You’re not a bad parent. It’s not even a bad parenting experience. It’s just normal.


2. Get enough sleep

The enthusiasm of mothers makes her love more appreciable. She can have the energy by proper rest. Once a mom is already recharged, new things come out for her and her children.


3. (Re) consider your priorities

Dr. Ubel added, “If you have any financial flexibility that lets you maximize your family time, use it now. For instance, do you really need to be the one to clean the house? How about paying someone to help out? And if that’s not an option, think about how clean your house really needs to be — do you need to make the beds, or is bed-making time better spent drawing pictures with your kids?”

This is another step to manage your time. Plan your activities each day so you can do more. Eliminate from your list which are less important.


4. Go with the flow

The so-called “flow” of psychologist is when you experience that time seems running to slow while you are doing anything you enjoy so much. People who experiences “flow” are said to be happier that those who experience this rarely. Cherish the moment you have with your kids. Make sure that nothing will come into your mind except the fact that you are presently happy with them.


5. Savor the moment

It is probably calmer to relax and taste every bit of happiness. Take time for yourself having a cup of coffee before doing things that will make you tired.


6. Take a long view

M.J. Ryan, author of The Happiness Makeover, remembers the times when her daughter wanted to sit on her lap and watch a video. Yes, she had other things to do. But she never knows how long it will last. That is why, she is so grateful for that time with her daughter.

If exhausting work attacks you, all you have to do is imagine all the memorable scenes with your children and your life if ever they are not there.


7. Reconnect with your spouse

Spouses are the vital person who serves as shoulders when going through and ups and downs of life. It is important to talk to spouse whenever you feel bad.


8. Say thanks

In all the time, though bad situations are trying to ruin your days, keep on looking for new good things. Be grateful whatever is new in life. This may help you to feel better than worrying disgusting incidence.

 

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