Second Culture Mommy

I was not born in the US. I was born and raised in Haiti. I moved here officially eleven years ago and have established this country as my new home. This was never my intention. The original plan was to come, study, experience the country and go back to my Haiti where I would build a great career with my U.S. diploma. I have my network down there, my parents home and everything at my disposal. No brainer.
And then, while getting my master’s degree, I fell for the trap. I fell in love. Crazy, make your head spin and heart beat faster love. He was intelligent, good looks, great smile,… I can go on but you get the picture. Funny thing is he was Haitian too but has already been living here, had an established career and had no intention of going back our Motherland. So…I did what made most sense, I stayed here.
All of this background to get to today’s topic: Dual cultures, can that be past down? I’m curious because nowadays, having Minnie Me, I am full of questions about how to raise right, to be a good person, etc… But also, how to give her a Haitian and an American culture in a non-confusing manner. Fun story, she came home the other day and wanted to play. She held my hands and wanted to spin around and started to sing :”ring around the rosy…”. I’m like what the heck is that? And then the more I listened, the song sounded familiar but it was definitely something that I didn’t learn from my childhood. It was something from the children around here. That made me wonder. I am all about her leaning these songs and I will learned them so that I could play with her (I am that kind of mom). I wonder if I could show her the games that I’ve played, the songs that I’ve learned. I loved my little french and creole songs. I loved the fun games from my childhood and I still remember most of them. How do I implement that? How have parents done it before me? Did they not care? Or were they so preoccupied in learning a new culture themselves that they just encourage their children to learn to become somewhat of a guide in this new world? Ever wonder?

Mission Out Of Bed: Complete

It took 3 nights, lots of housework, lots of courage and lots of morning coffee but I have successfully gotten baby to sleep in her own bed. This was one of the hardest things I had to do and my heart broke so many times. But… I did it. And she still likes me. Matter of fact, when I pick her up from the sitter, I get the sweetest hug and the biggest smile. And I fall in love with her all over again.

I have to say I have some experience with little Pooh but I did not expect what Minnie Me has brought into my life. Not only incredible cuteness but some unconditional love that I didn’t even know I had. And the constant amazement at the discoveries she makes, the things she learns. I added mommy to my resume. Who would have thought? Now if I can just master the kitchen like the husband or J, get Mel’s fashion sense and some new black pumps, more dreams will come true.

It’s A Girl!

It’s always good to hear some good news with all the crazy that is going on. I can’t think of a better deserving mama than my girl M. And I just saw the belly pic. All I can think of: ” when the heck did this happen? ” And my next thought: “Daddy already adores Mama. Now a little mama running around, the little princess is going to be SPOILED!”
Well then, I really NEED to plan a visit so I can see this progression and give my compliments in person. And yes, even if it’s a picture, I can definitely see the glow.

Congratulations M !