Tuesday's Tune: Ocean Eyes

I heard this song sometime last year and meant to blog about it, but I didn't have as much time then. I was so intrigued not only by the singer's voice but also the lyrics. Can you believe that the singer first sang this song when she was thirteen years old and probably recorded the song at that age (or at fourteen years of age)? I think she may be turning eighteen this year (talk about using her time wisely and being productive).

When I heard this song, I immediately thought of my sons and their beautiful eyes. Especially when they were newborns. I remember looking deep into their ocean eyes (although, now that I think about it, I should've done it more), with deep unending knowledge and seeing galaxies in their eyes. I remember it was painful to keep staring into their eyes because there was so much unspoken knowledge and their memories of their spiritual world was still so fresh in their minds. As much as I bemoaned about having to care for my children as babies (e.g. not enough sleep, poopie diapers, throw-up), I miss those days of just being able to hold them in my arms. 

What comes to your mind when you listen to this song?

Mother's Day

When my children's father asked me what I wanted for Mother's Day, I immediately told him my plans, which intentionally didn't include them. There was no hesitation and no contemplation. I just needed a break from the three of them. Of course, I might go out to lunch with them, but I need time away (I'm with my boys for practically most days).  

Then last night, while coughing, I pulled a muscle on my right side. It hurt and it also hurts to breathe deeply. So, my Mother's Day plans had to be changed. I didn't get to do all that I had planned, but I got a little alone time. Of course, I spent most of my day with my boys. It wasn't a bad day and I very much enjoyed their company. Don't get me wrong, I love my Mr. Man and our boys. Sometimes, I just need a break.

I hope you had a great Mother's Day. Sending much love, light, and laughter to you.

Lessons Learned

Last month I took my little family back to California so that my siblings and I could throw a party for my father (he turned 65 years old). There were hiccups as we counted down the days to my father's party, but we as a whole survived the event.

The party didn't go according to plan, but it turned out fine. One thing that became so obvious during the party was that so many of the Hmong people we invited, who are of the same clan but not immediate family members, didn't show up. My father was quite devastated that they didn't come. Yet, what was very interesting was the fact that a lot of my parents non-Hmong friends did show up. These people were friends that my parents had made in the last several years who cared enough to come to a birthday party held on a Saturday night, specifically for my father. It was quite moving, to be honest. I think it really opened up my parents' eyes that those that cared for them don't have to be Hmong.

We have to plan another birthday party for my mom in a couple of years, but we've learned so much from my dad's party. Hopefully, we will survive that one too. Hopefully, my parents will be open to inviting all of their friends again, regardless if they are Hmong or not.