Opining. Because, Really, This Challenge Is LONG.

O.

O.o.o.o.o.

Oh my word, I've got nothing.

The only O words I've got come with obvious opinions.

One-on-one time with your children...It's important.

Duh.

Organization...I love it. I know how to do it. Yet my house doesn't reflect it, because I have 6 people who don't give a rat's patootie about being organized.

Orthodontist...Find a good one, or your children will complain and tell you how horrible the experience was for the rest of your life. I'd write about my horrible experiences with one when I was a kid, but I did that 2 years ago for the A-Z. B is for braces. As of Wednesday, I now have two kids with torturous metal appliances in their mouths, and while they don't like the braces, the orthodontist's office and people are nothing but lovely.

Orbits...If your kids are struggling to understand the solar system, try acting it out. I still remember doing this when I was in 4th grade. Have one person be the sun, one the moon, one Earth. Have them rotate and revolve accordingly, with the Earth spinning and revolving, and the moon always facing the Earth. Discuss positions as the "year" goes on.

Origami...I have always been fascinated with origami, mostly because I know how difficult it is. We made origami swans in 5th grade art class when I was a kid. I've tried doing more, but getting that paper folded perfectly is apparently beyond my capabilities and attention span. I've given the kids origami books and paper, and Buttercup was able to make some flowers. Just last week, Cuckoo found the origami book, and guess what he asked me to make. OK, don't guess. I had to make that exact same bird I made in 5th grade. Let me just say, inside reverse folds have not gotten easier with age.

Organic...We don't buy it, but we grow it. Not sure I get the organic processed food. Really, I can't imagine that organic boxed mac and cheese is any better for you than regular boxed mac and cheese. But I have done zero research, so what do I know? Nothing. I know nothing, so it really shouldn't even be in an advice post. Oh, unless you are talking organic chemistry. Loved that class in school.

Ostrich...Not a fan, but it does rank above a creepy emu. I am a fan, though, of Mike Rowe and the episode about an ostrich farm. Mike trying to catch an ostrich is a lot like me trying to catch a chicken.

Outdoors...send the children there as much as possible, and join them often.

Outfits...From newborn-1, take advantage of your ability to dress your child in adorable outfits. From 1-the rest of the child's life, when he or she has an opinion on the matter (sometimes very strong opinions), just let it go. As long as the child is dressed modestly and appropriately (no sweats to Mass), let. it. go.

Overwhelmed...We all feel it now and again. Sometimes we just need to get through that busy week/month. Sometimes we feel overwhelmed all the time, and something needs to change. It may not be a big change, but a change is necessary. No one can be happy, productive, or pleasant when constantly overwhelmed. Perhaps it's as simple as making sure to get a shower before your spouse leaves for work. It may be as drastic as a job change. Regardless, don't live constantly overwhelmed.

Oxymoron...I just like the word.

Onomatopeia...Even better word. Learned it in a high school English class. BOOM!

Oxygen...Very necessary when working with children. In all cases of frustration, stopping to take a deep breath is very helpful. Breathe, people. BREATHE!


Okie doke.

That was probably the most unhelpful post I've ever written.

Ah well. At least Mike is in it to give you a chuckle.

Tomorrow will be better.

Probably.

Have a lovely day!