Hello and welcome to my blog.
What is it about?
It is about being a mother who is padding after her children as they make their way in the world.
It is about research I began 9 years ago, when I had no children, and how that research has been informed by a visceral connection with my amazing daughters.
My original research was about the power of children's culture to stand in the face of cultural hegemony. My new research isn't research... it is life. And I am immersed in it. I do not stand on the sidelines and observe... nor do I want to . I want to dive into this rich tapestry with the awe, wonder and disdain that my children experience. I want to thumb my nose at the thought that embracing their experience is whimsical folly based in nostalgic decadence. I seek to meet my own needs for enjoyment, connection, peace and integrity.
Originally I had an inkling that the culture of children could subvert the messages of consumerism, class ism, racism, sexism, and a multitude of isms that suck the life from each of us. Was I right? Am I right to mistrust institutions with my children's tender hearts and minds, because they contain within them the seeds to change our society for the better?
By being a mother doing this 'research' I am well aware of the lack of 'academic' distance I have. I know that my views will be subjective. I am my own subject, because I intend to use this blog as a means of documenting the changes that occur within me as I follow my children on their daily journeys.\
The day my oldest child was born (5.5 years ago) I went 'back to school.' The lessons I learn I treasure. There have been tough days and all-nighters. I have crammed for exams and felt totally unprepared despite doing 'my homework'. Through all of it I am so far my harshest critic more so than any prof or teaching assistant. So far my children appear to be happy with my work, but I hear that changes on their 13th birthday.
Never before have I had such dedicated teachers, with endless energy to challenge my every assumption. Time to sharpen my number 2 pencil and get my 'thinking hat' on, because class is in session.
I hope you will join me on my journey.
--Michelle
1 comment:
Hi Michelle! What a lovely first post and I totally agree. Watching Kyra grow is such a joy and I am so thankful that I get to spend so much time with her. I do look forward to reading your thoughts on motherhood, childhood, and the learning that comes from walking this journey with our children. Wee ... and I'm your first comment! :)
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