Mamma Kerr

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 A Future of Choices

In celebration of International Women’s Day, I thought I’d write about my hopes and aspirations for my twin daughters’ future, while reflecting on my own life and that of my mother.

 At just five years old, my daughters are growing up in a world different to that of my childhood, and significantly different to that of my own mother’s childhood.  They are growing up in a fast-paced world of technology, with computers and gadgets controlling almost every aspect of our lives.  They are growing up in a world of consumerism, where we have a multitude of choices for food, clothing, household goods, toys, gadgets, and luxury items.  It is a throw-away culture, with people opting to replace items that are still in working order, just so they can upgrade to the latest model or keep up with fashion.  It is a world of celebrity, with reality stars and WAGS, who are famous without having any discernable talent. It is a world of terrorism, where travel is an ever-increasing risk.

I want my girls to enjoy their school days, and will encourage them to progress to further or higher education.  As an advocate of lifelong learning, I am teaching my girls that education is an important privilege.  They should take advantage of the educational resources available to them, because there are many girls in other countries who cannot access even the most basic education.  I firmly believe that education is never wasted.  Therefore, if they change their mind halfway through their studies, or go on to do something completely different after graduating, their time spent learning will still be a positive contribution to their lives.

My own mother reluctantly left school at fifteen to start a job.  A talented artist, she really wanted to go to Glasgow School of Art.  Unfortunately, this wasn’t an option for her.  She was expected to start earning and contribute to the household.  Although she had been a good scholar at school, my mother was never encouraged to pursue her education, simply because she was a girl.  She had no choice.  This was in 1960.  Her brother, a few years younger, went on to study at university.

My parents always offered support and encouragement to my sister and I, throughout our educational years.  I hope to offer the same level of encouragement to my daughters.  I will support them with their educational choices, such as choosing their subjects for third year, choosing which course to study after school, and what college or university to go to.  (more…)

Apologies to anyone who stopped by yesterday when I was experiencing some technical difficulties on my site.  I think (hope!!) these problems have now been resolved.

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I’ve just signed up for the Midnight Tiara Walk for Strathcarron Hospice on Saturday 8th May 2010.  I will take to the streets of Stirling on the stroke of midnight to embark on a sponsored 10 mile walk to raise funds for the hospice.

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I’ve just seen the most amazing photos of newborns on the Daily Mail Website, which I needed to share with you.

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I’ve never really been a big fan of bees. I actually have a phobia of creepy crawlies, bees, wasps, etc. Since becoming a parent five and a half years ago, I have had to conquer this phobia somewhat. I certainly don’t want to pass on my irrational fears to my daughters. Therefore, I have developed nerves of steel when confronted by the little critters.

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I thought I’d share an amusing email I received from a friend recently, regarding how stupid some folk can be!   Enjoy!

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Five lessons about the way we treat people
 

I’d like to share a lovely collection of touching stories that I received via email from a friend.  The source of the stories is unknown, but I’m sure you will agree that, even if their authenticity is in doubt, the stories are great lessons in life.  (more…)

What’s Your Resolution and Sticking with It

Guest Post by Jen Malik

Man, if I had a dime for every resolution I made throughout the years. Or if I lost a pound for every resolution I’d ever made. Hehehe. Seriously, as I get older, choosing the right resolution and sticking with it, starts to get a bit easier. I’m never going to be a size 0 again and my chance at being a billionaire is likely over, so why not simply work toward a realistic happier, healthier life, right? That’s exactly what I plan to do for 2010.

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Staying in at New Years: Fun Ideas for All

Guest Post by Jen Malik

Can you believe it’s almost here…the last celebration of the year? Coming up the milestone year of 2010 that used to just to be something we heard about in science fiction novels and movies.
We’re planning a fun evening in this evening (fondue…as usual!) – forget the crowds, over-priced events. If you’re doing the same, here are some ideas for you.

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Returning Gifts & Sore Feelings

Guest Post by Jen Malik

It never fails. Aunt Rita always buys you that horrendous Christmas sweater that you’re just never going to wear. Of course, if you’re ultra-polite, you may make an obligatory appearance in the sweater just once. But goodness knows, you don’t want that sweater.
So what do you do?

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Merry Christmas to all my readers!

‘Twas the Night Before Christmas

Guest Post by Jen Malik

I love Christmas Eve. It’s a relaxing night (well, compared to the chaos of tomorrow morning) and offers a little time to reflect while the wee ones sleep. They’ll be jumping on my bed at the crack of dawn (or earlier), so now’s my time.

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I’ve enlisted the services of a Guest Blogger for over the festive period.

This is to allow me time to enjoy my time off from my corporate job and fully enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

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IKEA have issued an urgent recall of their popular “Leopard” highchairs, after receiving 11 reports of broken snap locks.

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Forget Delia, Nigella or Jamie this year and try this cake recipe, but make sure you follow the instructions very very carefully …… It works for me!

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Last night, there was a massive recall of more than 2.1 million drop-side cots, sold in the USA and Canada.

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