fabiochiu/medium-articles huggingface dataset:
How does a laser work in Laser Engraving process — Basics of laser technology
By: Sheetal Dhanvijay
Tags: Manufacturing, Engraving, Laser Engraving, Laser Technologies, Laser

Laser technology has been increasingly used in a wide range of manufacturing, clinical, metrology, and various scientific applications.

What is laser engraving?

Laser engraving is also known as Laser Marking. The laser engraving is a technique where a powerful laser is used for design purposes to engrave or produce marks on a material's surface. The colour shift due to chemical/ molecular modification, charring, foaming, melting, ablation and more are used in laser labelling.

https://jaiambayetchingprocess.com/blog/what-is-laser-engraving-and-how-can-this-function/

How does a laser work in Laser Engraving process — Basics of laser technology

Lasers are light sources that have very special properties. Laser technology is integrated into many areas of everyday life. Laser technology has been increasingly used in a wide range of manufacturing, clinical, metrology, and various scientific applications.

Here is a general overview of how it works.

1. The laser medium is made up of particles which are in their basic state.

2. The pump feeds energy into the particles, and they rise to a higher energy level.

3. If any of these particles then fall back into their basic state, energy is released in the form of a photon, also called light quantum.

4. If another excited particle is struck by this photon, it is pushed back into the basic state, releasing another photon. This is known as pollutants that are induced. If these photons strike other excited particles, more photons are emitted, and a kind of “photon avalanche” is caused, and so on.

5. Energy is repeatedly pumped into the laser medium, stimulating the particles so that they can release more photons.

6. The mirrors reflect the photons, thereby increasing the number of photons further and further → a directional beam is formed.

This beam can leave the laser through the partially transmissive mirror and is directed onto the material — where it engraves, marks or cuts the desired motif.

Logo laser engraving on strong copper

Conclusion/Summary: You will need a laser engraving technique if you are running a print company, and Jai Ambay Etching Process is an awesome place for laser engraving processes.
How to Decipher Speedtronic Mark VI and Mark VIe Part Numbers
By: Marla Keene
Tags: Manufacturing, Gas Turbine, Gas Turbine Heavy Duty, Speedtronic, Turbine Control System

When working with any legacy system it’s important to understand the naming conventions of the part numbers and how those part numbers may have changed through various part runs. AX Control sells many legacy systems, including several of the Speedtronic series like the Mark I-II, Mark IV, the Mark V, and the Mark VI series boards.

IS200AEAAH1CPR1

When we look at GE’s Speedtronic Mark VI and Mark VIe as an example, we can see how naming conventions work. They have designed their part number so it gives the user a significant amount of information — if you know how to break down that information properly. Let’s look at one example.

If we take the IS200AEAAH1CPR1 board (shown here), we can break the part number down so it will tell us something about the board. Break up the number like this: IS/2/00/AEAA/H/1/C/PR1

1. Issuing Organization Code: IS (IS) From GE Power, Salem, VA, USA (DS): From GE Power, Salem, VA, USA 2. Hazardous Substance Code:2 (2) -Not RoHS compliant (4) RoHS Compliant 3. Assembly Level Code:00 (00) PCBA (01) Coated PCBA (05) PCBA that is designed to be soldered into another PCBA (10) PCBA with an added assembly process or manufacturing step (11) A coated PCBA with added assembly process (15) PCBA with additional firmware and/or daughterboard (20) One or more PCBAs within an enclosure (21) One or more coated PCBAs within an enclosure (30) One or more printed wiring assembly on a base (31) One or more coated printed wiring assemblies on a base 4.Board or Module Type: AEAA Four-letter code (typically a mnemonic device) that describes the function of the board. 5. Technology Code:H (G)The board has no surface-mount technology, only lead-through hole components (H) Surface-mount components are present (S) A functional safety system component 6. Assembly Variant:1 Excluding zero, this is one numeric character 7. Backward Compatibility Version:C One alpha character (excludes I, O, and Q) 8. Printed Wiring Assembly Version:PR1 (BR+one numeric character excluding zero) Breadboard (PR+one numeric character excluding zero) Prototype (One alpha character, excluding I, O, or Q) Production Optional Character: (n/a) One alpha character excluding I, O or Q Boards marked for use in hazardous or classified locations: X

While these naming conventions were typically used for GE boards in the Mark VI and Mark VIe series, as with all evolving systems, there will be some exceptions. This information should be taken as a starting point rather than an end in your search for more information about your PCBs.

Mark VI and Mark VIe boards were designed by General Electric for industrial control systems across a full spectrum of applications, including steam and gas turbines, as well as wind and hydro applications.

Read more about the history of GE Speedtronic Turbine Control. And feel free to contact us for any of your MKVI or other Speedtronic needs.
What is the U.S. Motorcycle Market Size?
By: Rajesh Varma
Tags: Manufacturing, USA, Us, Motorcycle, Directors

The U.S. motorcycle market size is expected to reach USD 10.88 billion by 2025, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc., Increasing amount of disposable income is expected to drive the market. Surplus amount of income is used by Americans to buy motorcycles which leads to an increase in the sales and registration of vehicles. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, motorcycle registrations in the U.S. have increased over the past 10 years, from 3,826,373 in 1997 to 6,678,958 in 2006, which indicates an overall increase of 75%. Sales of new street-legal motorcycles increased more sharply over the same period, from 260,000 in 1997 to 892,000 in 2006.

Furthermore, according to Statista Inc., a total of 487,144 units were sold in the U.S. in the year 2016. This shows the potential demand and growth for these products in the coming years. Growing economic standards, changing lifestyle and increasing rates of petroleum are shifting the customer preference towards motorcycles which offer greater fuel efficiency in comparison to cars. Motorcycles are an effective and affordable way of transport owing to which the working class and the younger generation of the society are more attracted towards these products. Growing urbanization is also a significant factor driving the growth of the market in the country.

According to the International Organization for Migration in 2015, around 3 million people are migrating to cities every week. Currently, around 82% of the population in North America are living in the urban areas with a high concentration in mid and large-sized cities. Such huge trend towards urbanization has led to growing awareness of new products and their easy availability. All these factors are expected to boost the U.S. motorcycle industry over the forecast period.

To get a free sample copy of this report, click the link below:

www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/us-motorcycle-market

Further Key Findings From the Study Suggest:

Motorbikes segment held the dominant share of 56.7% in the U.S. motorcycle market owing to the high adoption rate and wide range of products

Scooters segment is expected to grow at a lucrative rate of 4.0% over the forecast period owing to the associated advantages such as better fuel efficiency, lightweight, and low cost.

Harley Davidson dominates the U.S. motorcycle industry with a market share of nearly 47%.

Grand View Research has segmented the U.S. motorcycle market on the basis of product:

U.S. Motorcycle, Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014–2025)
Implementing ERP Systems for Efficient Manufacturing Processes
By: Jack Mathew
Tags: Manufacturing, Erp, IoT, Erp Software, Technology

ERP in manufacturing

The manufacturing industry is experiencing a shift in business processes with the increase in customer expectation around customization. There is also a growing demand for manufacturing companies to shorten the lead times or they might lose business to their counterparts.

Enterprise resource planning (ERP) can help the manufacturing companies to meet the growing expectations by making the manufacturing processes more agile and efficient. ERP systems provide an innovative platform that has several benefits. Few examples of how ERP systems can help manufacturing processes:

Single System of Record: An ERP platform can link every machine, system, customer, supplier, person, and materials to the system of records. This adds enormous benefits for management of manufacturing processes as the platform allows the users to fetch any particular data in real-time. ERP systems also help companies to abide by the Food Safety Modernization Act, which requires companies to have instant access to records and visibility into the supply chain for control, containment, and remediation in the case of contamination. A paper-based system cannot provide adequate support to meet these demands, but cloud-based ERP systems have built-in traceability system allowing businesses to identify any problem in minutes.

Real-time Visibility: An efficient manufacturing process requires all the stakeholders from suppliers to partners, to work in tandem. ERP platforms can integrate with suppliers and partner systems, allowing businesses to have a great level of visibility. Real-time visibility helps companies to keep every part of their manufacturing processes working smoothly.

Handling Maintenance: ERP systems use artificial intelligence to discover inefficiencies in the manufacturing process automatically. Advanced analytics can also help to improve overall equipment effectiveness and drive process and quality improvement. ERP systems also offer predictive maintenance, which can spot any problems in the equipment, assisting the businesses to act before equipment failure.

Modern ERP systems have integrations with many advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, IoT, and other related technologies allowing businesses to fine-tune their processes more easily and promulgate best practices.

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Building Modular Shelters for Refugee Camps • Bushra Bataineh
By: Women Of Stem
Tags: Women in STEM, Manufacturing, Womenofstem, Sustainability, Refugees

(Founder and CEO, MAWA Modular | PhD in Civil & Environmental Engineering, Stanford University || CA USA)

“I was born and raised in Jordan, but came to the US for university. During my studies, I realized I really enjoyed building things. As part of my PhD in Sustainable Design and Construction, I took an entrepreneurship class where I looked at living conditions in refugee camps. There were early signs that a massive refugee crisis was coming, although we did not expect it to be the biggest one ever. I witnessed the crisis firsthand when I visited refugee camps in Jordan. With 80,000 people, they’re starting to look more like cities. More people are fleeing to camps and staying longer — the average stay of refugees is now 17 years since paths for resettlement don’t really exist anymore. Temporary shelter is no longer suitable for the growing needs of refugee families.

•

I began designing longer-term shelter options that are easy to assemble and disassemble. My team and I have built several product prototypes of modular kits that allow for easy shipping, and can be expanded as family needs change. We are now moving out of the prototyping stage and into the testing stage — I am actively meeting with manufacturers in Jordan to build the modules.

•

Throughout the project I have worked with many amazing people — construction engineers, materials scientists, solar engineers, remote sensing experts, product designers, and empathy researchers. The majority of these people volunteered their time because they believe in the impact of the work. They went into science and engineering to solve the problems humanity faces. At the core of STEM is the desire to solve problems. What I think is really exciting is that you can pick which ones you want to solve.”
[VIDEO] Chad Jackson of Lifecycle Insights about OpenBOM
By: Openbom, Openbom.Com
Tags: Bill Of Materials, Product Design, Review, Manufacturing

Last week, we had a pleasure to share what we do at OpenBOM with Mr. Chad Jackson of Lifecycle Insight. Chad Jackson is Chief Analyst and Content Director at Lifecycle Insight (learn more about here) is covering various technologies and topics in the domain of engineering, IoT, mechanical and electric design, system engineering and others.

Knowing Chad for many years, it was very interesting to learn his perspective on engineering and manufacturing business, software trends, tools and technologies.

Here is a video Chad shared with us.

Conclusion.

Granular service focused on a specific problem with clear value. Solves ONE problem and does it really well. We liked Chad’s conclusion. Listen to Chad and draw your opinion.

However, if you have BOM management, inventory planning and purchase order to make and… you still do it with Excels or Spreadsheet, this is might be a time to check OpenBOM (openbom.com).

Best, Oleg

PS. Let’s get to know each other better. If you live in the Greater Boston area, I invite you for a coffee together (coffee is on me). If not nearby, let’s have a virtual coffee session — I will figure out how to send you a real coffee.

Want to learn more about PLM? Check out my Beyond PLM blog and PLM Book website.
Machining Design to Expand Machined Parts Manufacturing Services
By: Norm Grimberg
Tags: Manufacturing, Cnc Machining, Cnc Machined Parts, Industry, Cnc

ONTARIO, Canada — June 08, 2018- For over 50 years, Machining Design Associated Ltd has been engaged wholeheartedly in producing high-precision custom CNC milling parts, CNC turning parts, CNC machined parts and more. The company has been highly praised by the customers and the auditors alike for creating quality components and parts in tune with customers’ specifications, timely delivery, and feedback loop system. The company specializes in producing a variant of CNC turning parts, including bolts, washers, rivets, shafts and more. Apart from producing precision machined parts, MDA Ltd. also has an extensive experience in curating and deploying superior surface finishes. The company has recently announced an expansion in terms of machined part manufacturing services.

Machining Design Associated effectively encounters both low-volume and high-volume orders shared by enterprises. The company has experienced machinists, advanced machining equipments, and hi-tech infrastructure to supply custom machining parts on-time and under the given budget. Machining Design Associated Ltds’ provides a wide range of custom machining services to different industry verticals that include Medicine, Hospitality, Aerospace, IT and more.

According to the spokesperson, the company is now going to provide precision screw machining and fabricated parts to companies across the vertical. This decision was taken after the flood of orders they received for the specific services.

To know more about the company and the services offered, please visit the company site: https://mdaltd.ca/

About Machining Design Associated Ltd (MDA)

Machining Design Associated Ltd. is an ISO: 9001:2015 certified company dedicated to producing superior-quality CNC machined and custom metal parts to customer specifications. With a strong focus on continual improvement, our company only utilizes best-practices to ensure that the work we do for our customers is done in the most efficient, precise and cost-effective way possible.

The focus for Machining Design Associated has and always will be on developing and maintaining lasting relationships with customers. MDA is proud to be large enough to handle our customer needs yet small enough to offer the personal attention customer appreciate. After 50 years in the business, we are a recognized leader in the manufacturing of precision metal and plastic parts.

Media Contacts

Norm Grimberg Founder and CEO Machining Design Associated Ltd

Phone: 905–738–0070

Toronto Line: 416–632–7887

Toll Free: 1(888) 440–4435 (Outside Greater Toronto Area)

Email: machiningdesign@mdaltd.ca

Originally published at news.thomasnet.com.
TPY Establishing Itself as a Leading Technology Park
By: Technology Park Ypenburg
Tags: Manufacturing, Technology Park, Technology

In face of the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic the TPY team has diligently worked to start the next phase of its evolution, supported with a significant investment from the City of The Hague and tremendous support from InnovationQuarter.

Our recently completed “TPY Community Center”, a place where companies who need flexible working facilities can access desks, offices, or meeting rooms, is the perfect place to connect with a unique and growing community of key individuals. Our community is made up of business entrepreneurs and specialists across all disciplines in the High Tech Manufacturing Industry, such as materials development, product development, and automation.

We also have our “TPY Scale Up and Innovation Center” for scale-up businesses to relocate to as they take their next steps in their business growth. TPY provides access to many high cost machines, tools, and know-how in order to relieve the financial burden put on early stage companies. We are also delighted that construction work has started on our “TPY Prototyping Center” where startups have access to tools and expertise to develop their initial products. The TPY Prototyping Center will be completed and open towards the end of February 2021.

Finally, and as equally significant, we are working on establishing our “TPY Academy’’ where we combine the needs of TPY companies for future talent with an opportunity for students to connect with TPY. As Students finish their education and start to formulate their career aspirations, students, via our TPY Academy, will have the opportunity to experience a broad spectrum of industries and companies. The many companies located in Ypenburg are developing a “Multi Company Internship Programme”, which we aim to have in place for 2021 to provide students with a wide range of internship experiences.

We are grateful for the support and encouragement of the city and other stakeholders here at TPY to be able to propel our ambition as we move forward in creating an environment where we are stronger together. A key role in our strategy is the tremendous talent we have access to by being so close to internationally recognised Universities and schools. We aspire to become the natural location for scale-ups in the region to move to as their businesses mature, as well as being a magnet for International businesses to relocate.

For more information, please contact:

Stephen Hands, Managing Director TPY

Mobile: +31621120083

Email: Stephen.hands@technologyparkypenburg.nl
Take your “Parents” to work Day
By: Luis M Colmenares
Tags: Parenthood, Life, Sap

Picture from My phone outside SAP HQ in Pennsylvania

Recently SAP had a Take your Child to work day, as always, I took my kids. I have been doing that since they were able to attend because is restricted to specific ages. However, don’t tell anybody I squeeze in three exceptional mentees, when my kids were little, two of them are working in SAP now, the other one is doing fine in a very promising job.

This event always brings memories when I was a kid in Venezuela such event didn’t exist. Actually, it was “ take your kid to work almost all summer”, because my parents maybe didn’t have anybody to take care of me and I was obligated to go with them, I don’t know. My mom worked at the main hospital in Caracas, she was in charge of the Physical Therapy unit and I spent many hours playing with the PT gadgets, fun toys for me.

Sometimes she took me to her patient visits in their houses and I stayed in the living room watching TV or playing with the house kid. On the other hand, my Dad was an insurance agent and he has a home office but he had to go to his clients and the main insurance office in the Caracas Downtown, those were long days with them and they switch depends on the activities.

I was always excited because I felt proud to watch my parents interacting with people and I felt that they were very important and I was proud of them, of course, the treats were good, Ice cream, churros, empanadas or a small toy became the highlight of the day. One day few years after I graduated, I had my second job as a field engineer at IBM Venezuela, I was fixing some Banking terminals in an office close to my father insurance company and he knew, so he managed to find me and bring my mom with him. I was head down with my tools and suddenly I felt that I was been watched. To my surprise, both were steering and me with a big smile. I think both felt proud that I was there performing an important function I couldn’t believe my eyes that I was with my parents in a client. I stopped and walk to them gave them a big hug and told them “I can’t leave now but I meet you at home for lunch” they both left because they have some errands to run and they couldn’t stay. That was my “Bring your parents to work day”

I see my kids and other colleagues’ kids and I think how they feel about seeing their parents in the workplace especially such a nice one like SAP, what is the impact of any children? I really believe they can see how far they can go. Events like these or just a simple lunch at work for any kid at any job definitively boost their dreams, if not just open their minds and at one point they appreciate all the work that parents do for them. Like my parents felt I will be very happy entering to their workplaces if they ever take me.

Next time you have a chance to take your children or any children you will make a difference in their life, at least to my twins did as they said at the SAP Auditorium the best part was lunch.

https://youtu.be/QUP9CKLXdCA
Zoom-bie and Mental Health
By: Celine Crawford
Tags: Mental Health, Parenthood, Lockdown, Mentalhealthawarenessweek

It’s been a weird old time hasn’t it? As it’s mental health awareness week, I can honestly say that social distancing and not seeing my colleagues has started to take its toll.

I miss the social fabric of Smarkets, the intimate booth conversations, the Marke-tea rendez-vous, the lunchtime bell and chit chats with our chefs.

My body definitely misses our sit/stand up desks, walking by our luscious living wall, our group meditation sessions and our monthly masseuse!

But what I miss most is the togetherness, the eye contact, the pat on the shoulder, the drive, the laughter and seeing more than a head and shoulders when we have meetings.

Going bedroom virtual and turning into a Zoom-bie has really affected me as a working parent. Having time away from parenthood clearly makes me a much better mother, wife, daughter, friend…

I look forward to the day we can all break bread together and closely brainstorm in a room again. Those ‘How are you todays’ that may have seemed superficial or insignificant back then somehow feel very important now.

In the meantime, however long that may be, I hope each and everyone of you is thinking a little about self-care, if not everyday then at least this is the right week to do so.
What Blackberries Mean to Oregon Girls
By: Sheloppel Wood
Tags: Northwest, Parenthood, Nonfiction, Essay, Oregon

What Blackberries Mean to Oregon Girls

a summer micro-essay

Some see only invasive weeds. To my girls, this blackberry patch on the side of the road is their summer nights, at ages 7 and 10.

Overgrown from a neighbor’s yard, spilling into the street in front of the middle school. I know these bushes are a destructive pest, the bane of gardeners.

To my girls, they are the reason for an after-dinner walk, a way to forestall bedtime, a Tupperware bowl full of tomorrow’s breakfast.

In the evening sun of an Oregon summer, it feels light-years from November, when the rain will return and the skies will darken not long after the school day ends, sending my girls under their covers earlier each night.

A breeze lifts the rope on the school flagpole; the hooks on the rope clang against the metal pole. In the distance, I watch two young men descend a hill on the way to their pickup truck.

Their t-shirts and jeans are dirty and language rough — their shits and fucks tripping by us on the warm breeze. I keep an eye on them, feeling more protective every day of my girls’ ears, and innocence, and changing bodies. But they don’t notice the men, who climb into their truck and drive away.

My youngest daughter never removes her flower-print bike helmet, as her fingers go deep pink with berry juice. My oldest won’t leave until they’ve filled the entire bowl with new berries.

In 40 minutes, I will be home, hollering at them to wash your face — brush your teeth — get in bed — it’s late — I mean it —

But for now there’s no yelling, just the clanging flagpole, some birdsong, my girls’ chatter as they compare the size of their pickings. My shadow is long and strange in the dozens of photos I take of them, because I know these nights aren’t forever and that’s part of the sweetness.

I wonder if, when they are women, my girls will see blackberries on the side of the road or in the supermarket and think of these summers before they grew up.The way, when I think I smell a certain kind of syrupy honeysuckle — even though that kind doesn’t grow out here — I remember the girl I was in North Carolina, on summer nights when I was 7, or 10.
In My Weakness, God is Strong
By: Jessica Contessa
Tags: Parenthood, Healing, Pregnancy, Loss, Grief

A year and a half has elapsed since the loss of our daughter Phoebe. I was five months pregnant with my third child in three years and I had total peace about it. Then everything happened. I gave birth to her in my bathroom at home and we saw her sweet face alive for 30 minutes. Once I was done laboring a bacterial infection took over and more blood came with it. When the surgeon can’t hide the shock on her face when she sees what’s happening you know it’s bad. A few days later I went gone with an empty womb and a broken heart. Pain and tears were constantly with me but I needed to do something so I started to write.

I had already been blogging for the past 8 months but this was different. I wrote about what happened to my daughter, how nothing but Jesus was keeping me alive at that point, about how I felt guilty for living. Then I started to get emails and texts from women, some who I had known for years saying “that’s my story too” as in they experienced pregnancy loss, or more than one. Here is the thing that happens when you lose what’s most important to you, fear has little hold on you anymore. What did I have to fear, my worse nightmare happened and yet I’m still here.

God kept me around for reasons I can’t see yet and those that are right in front of me. My two sons and now my 6-month-old daughter Hope Shalom. Shalom means more than peace, it’s peace in the midst of trials. I had Shalom through my pregnancy with Phoebe and I didn’t know why. Peace was preparing me for the storm that was ahead. But Hope kept me going and it still does. There are plenty of days I still miss my Phoebe and yet I’m so thankful for her life and I know I will see her again one day.
kids.
By: Data Dumping
Tags: Parenthood, Children, Teen Pregnancy, Love

Did I ever write about my desire not to have kids? Let’s pretend that I didn’t. I was nine when I decided that I would not have kids. I was not too fond of the little gremlins as a kid, and as I eased into adulthood, I wouldn't say I liked the cost of them. But now that I met my soul mate, I think that stance has to change since my soulmate wants a baby. So this shortish essay is about my opinions on babies.

I was nine when I told my mom that I would never have a baby. I was looking at the kids at play in my yard, and I was not invited. I did not know how to get involved, but I knew that I did not want to bring a child into the world to feel the way I felt that day. Additionally, my parents did not want kids in the first place and always complained about how much money we cost them; I figured that kids were not worth the risk. Besides, I did not want kids so much as I wanted a healthy relationship with my partner, whoever they may be. That relationship, the one I noticed my parents did not really have with each other, was the one I wanted for myself.

To return to that classroom table when I was twelve, with the girls picking out the names of their children, I did not want kids for myself. I did not want kids as a bragging rights thing either. My father had kids because the people around him said that is what they wanted, and he wants what other people say get. My mother wanted children to keep her relationship. The girls at the table wanted kids because that is what the world around them said they should want. At that time, all I knew was that kids cost, and I was not supposed to want things. People are not something I really understood. I just knew having one would not make my life easy or help me understand my feelings.

There was a scandal in my middle school of a twelve-year-old girl getting pregnant, and the uproar of her having sex and keeping the kid, having to go to a new school so she could learn how to be a caregiver, added to my fear of being a parent. It was an easy thing not to want. High school was no different when my mother’s friend's daughter, Sherry, got pregnant at 15 and named me the godparent. It was an honor I did not want since I did not have a job. When my best friend was pregnant, it was different since I knew I would be a part of her life in a way I would not be with Sherry.

She was forced to abort it.

From then on, I avoided children. I had too many ethical questions about their existence with the parents to really want to get into enjoying kids for the kids’ sake. I take a selfish pride in not changing the diapers of any children put in my way. When I dreamt about tsunami and the discussion of having a baby, I gushed about his vasectomy. Guess those fantasies were all mine instead of given dreams from the deities.

Now that I am considering the baby as something my soulmate needs from me, I am not so scared of paying for a baby so much as being left alone to raise one.

If I am honest, I may want one. It would be a great joint project to be a parent. But for one to exist, I would need to have a strong relationship.
What are you thinking about?
By: Heather Honaker
Tags: Fear, Parenthood, Motherhood, Parents, Parenting

What is going on in that head of yours? What are you looking at when you are watching out the window while we drive in the car? What do you think about when you are tucked in bed, waiting to fall asleep? While you are staring out the front door, what do you see?

Do you wish I would spend more time laughing with you? Should I have asked you more questions about your day? Did I ask you too many?

Do you think about what you want to do when you grow up? Do you wonder what it will be like when you finally start to walk? What do you think you will do with the freedom when you are off on your own, walking, talking and making decisions without me?

When we don’t connect and you can’t communicate with me, what are you trying to say? How do you feel when I get it wrong and instead of giving you what you would prefer, I give you what I think you need? Do you feel alone?

When I ask you to wait, do you think it is unfair? Have you waited more than the others? Do I give you enough of my time to make you feel special? Do you think I should say yes more times than I say no?

Do you think about me when you are at school? Do you tell your friends about things we do at home? Do you have friends? Are you lonely? Is it easy for you to make friends or is it hard?

Do you get excited when I come home from the store? Do you notice if I leave without telling you bye or if I get home after you’ve gone to bed? Can you see how tired I am and do you think that it is your fault?

How long do you think about how I lost my temper earlier in the day when you wouldn’t brush your teeth? Do you think more about the books we read together or the amount of times that I put you in timeout today?

When I say I’m sorry do you learn from my mistakes? Do I give you enough kisses every day? Do you get tired of me telling you to be careful?

Do you feel how proud of you I am when you do anything? Am I giving you enough room to be who you are? Do you try to be who you think will make me happy? Are you performing already?

Do you feel safe? You do know that you can always come to me, right? How do I make you see that asking for help is brave and taking it all in on your own is often not? Do you know how much I love you and how nothing could ever change that?
Cherry Soda, I’ve highlighted sentences in your comment on Beth Bruno’s piece about estrangement…
By: Christine Talley
Tags: Family Estrangement, Parenthood, Estrangement, Parent Child Relationship, Parent Child

Cherry Soda, I’ve highlighted sentences in your comment on Beth Bruno’s piece about estrangement from her daughter; your words reflect my own cross roads as an estranged parent. Based on your comments, I honestly have no idea which path you’d have the parent take. Like Beth, I inadvertently hurt my child as my marriage was failing and depression took hold. There were numerous other circumstances that piled on, overwhelming me until I was in the eye of the hurricane and no longer able to see that my child’s emotional wellbeing wasn’t being tended properly. Like Beth, I acknowledge I failed my son. Like Beth, I wish desperately that I might rewind and do differently. But there are two realities you seem to miss; I broach them not to argue my point, but to understand your point of view:

1) parents are human, and I had a human response to my life fantastically imploding in a perfect storm of completely separate circumstances. Yes, it’s my job as a mother to protect my child and avoid passing on my own suffering, but then there is the reality of the human condition; there were so many factors at play, and I held everything together for as long as I could before succumbing to depression and the ghosts of my own trauma. Again, I’m human — so I can’t understand the notion that “despite all the drama, you, as the parent had the responsibility to hold it together and usher your family through unscathed.” My God, if I could have better done this I would have!! I would literally lay down my life for my child, and I would never knowingly harm him. But too often we can’t see these storms until they are upon us, or we think we’re managing when we’re not. I simply couldn’t get the proverbial oxygen mask on myself first so I could help him with his, thus we both suffered. Do I accept that this was my responsibility, my failing? Yes. But was it a moral or a human failure?

2) Beth writes of her acceptance of her situation, and the self compassion it took for her to arrive there. This is the cross road at which I stand — do I continue to carry the grief, regret, remorse, and shame that so relentlessly cuts me to my core? Or do I work to find some measure of self compassion for my human imperfections so that I may truly release my son? After all, I t’s not his job to relieve my anguish, but if not him, nor self compassion, then what? Eternal suffering?

As Ive had not a word from my son about our estrangement, I am thirsty for perspectives from anyone on the other side of this painful divide. I ask respectfully and genuinely, What is it I miss from your perspective?
Introduction Who am I?
Tags: Introduction, Parenthood, Disability, Blindness, Parenting

Greetings to all of my future readers. I know what you’re probably thinking, Who is this person and why should I bother reading their blog?

Allow me to introduce myself, for the sake of anonymity my name is Wittie. I’m a first time mom who also happens to be completely blind. With this blog I want to be able to share tips and tricks that I have learned along the way when it comes to parenting with a disability. I want the content to be relatable and easily accessible. I remember searching for answers and having to scour the web to find other parents like me. I have made many friends along the way but it was frustrating trying to find positive information. Besides parenting I want this blog to be a fun place to share opinions on a variety of topics such as TV shows, movies, and music. Last but not least I want to write about access technology and how to use it. Lots of able-bodied people tend to think that blind people live in the Stone Age and don’t use computers, smart phones, and modern technology. People who do know that we are using smart technology don’t understand how inaccessible certain parts of the Internet can be and how frustrating it is for those of us who have to rely on screenreaders. My hope is that this blog can shine a light on this topic and create an open dialogue between able-bodied and disabled people.

Thank you for reading and joining me on this crazy journey through life.
It’s Time We Put Parenthood On Our Resumes
By: Superkin, Tara
Tags: Working Parents, Covid 19, Parenthood, Working Moms, Motherhood

We’ll never go numb to it: each month of the pandemic-era, new statistics emerge showing women leaving the workforce at 4x the rate of men, and that women of color have been disproportionately impacted. It’s an insult to the injury of this grief-filled year, a brutal step backwards on women’s path to economic power. Last week, when 50 powerful leaders signed a letter of support for the Marshall Plan for Moms, led by Girls Who Code CEO Reshma Saujani, the topic came into the national spotlight. F*#king Finally.

The Marshall Plan for Moms proposes a temporary $2400 stipend and calls for policies regarding paid family leave, affordable childcare and pay equity. And hell-yes, a care czar? Our septuagenarian congressional leaders aren’t faced with the realities of childcare costs, let alone the multi-mastering demands put on a generation of millennial moms, a majority of whom are in the workforce. While there are details left to iron out, the Marshall Plan for Moms is a step in the right direction.

This pandemic (11 months and counting…) has forced working families into a corner: schools are closed, childcare is unaffordable, and we can’t mix households. As a result, staying home wasn’t a choice for millions of moms, it was the only option. Our capitalist society uses dollars to signal value. Putting a price tag on care isn’t a handout, it shows we value this work — and it is work. As Eve Rodsky, one of the 50 supporters of the Marshall Plan for Moms, writes, “This isn’t about paying women to stay home, it’s about the opportunity cost of their lost time this year… when we value care, we ALL win.”

In cyberspace, it’s easy for each of us to retreat into our mom identities (suburban vs city moms, liberal vs conservative, corporate vs stay at home moms). But we’re missing the point. This is not about what kind of mom you are — this is about challenging a status quo that’s not working for anyone. So check your negativity and let’s move the conversation FORWARD, not back. Let’s channel RBG and “fight for the things you care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join you.” We’re relieved that this topic is making buzzy headlines — but those passionate about this topic have an obligation to get informed, find common ground and build on shared truths. Aren’t we all in this together, parents?

We don’t have a crystal ball to tell us what single platform, stimulus or leader is going to finally move the needle. But today’s families desperately need policies that reflect the complexity of modern life. We can no longer brush our job as parents under the rug*.

So, team, count us in for two more signatures at MarshallPlanForMoms.com.

*Add to Resume: Raising Humans
Do you see yourself in your dreams?
By: This Is Us
Tags: Imagination, Parenthood, Psychology, Kids, Dreams

Photo by William Daigneault on Unsplash

It was just another lazy Sunday morning. I woke up at around 8 AM and I sneaked to the hall for a few minutes of “me” time to watch the latest movie reviews on YouTube.



Soon I heard the sound of Aditi’s anklets. In no time, she was at my sofa’s armrest with that naughty smile on her face! Time for some daddy jokes! I closed my laptop.



“Aditi, I had a scary dream, I was being chased by a dinosaur!” I was not making this up, I could vaguely remember me hiding, a Jurassic park movie type of experience. That was enough, she started with her story about her dreams. Her dreams are always so vivid, I always doubt she is adding her own fresh ideas to the whole story every time!



The events in her dreams were so disconnected. I pretended to listen, but I was losing interest. But then she paused for a moment and called “Daddy…”.



That brought my attention back. She asked, “Do you know you don’t get to see yourself in your dreams?”



Oh yes, that is true. I was surprised! I never noticed that before. I am present in every dream of mine, but I was never in front of the camera! I did a quick Google and confirmed that’s the case with most people, not everyone though!



I turned to congratulate her for that great observation. By then, she had already opened Netflix, pushing me out to get her toothbrush!
What is the role of parents in determining the screen (time) habits of children?
By: Close Relationships
Tags: Parenthood, Children, Technology, Psychology, Parenting

What is the role of parents in determining the screen (time) habits of children? Close Relationships May 5·2 min read

As Meninas — Karyna Iglesias (2015)

In the modern world, screen access has become easier for children as well as for adults. The more time parents spend in front of the screen, the more their children follow suit. Instead of complaining about kids’ screen time, parents need to find ways to make a change in their own behaviors and reduce their own screen times.

Parents’ manners and inhibiting attitudes are effective in determining the screen time of children. However, when children take a participatory role in determining screen time, they can define their relationship with the screen more easily. The World Health Organization also states that children under the age of 2 should not be exposed to the screen and that children aged 2–4 should be limited to a maximum screen time of 1 hour per day. In addition, it is emphasized that it is paramount for children aged 1–5 to spend at least 3 hours a day physically active, away from the screen, and in nature.

On the other hand, technology/screen use can take forms such as video chatting with friends, continuing distance education, and playing online games. These forms benefit children in developing their creativity and learning to act collaboratively. However, excessive screen use harms children’s sensory systems and ability to focus. Spending excessive time in front of the screen can even cause obesity due to reduced physical activity.

Here is a song and a movie that handles the impact of technology in our lives:

The movie: Disconnect (2012)

Disconnect, a movie about how the internet changes the daily life of people from multiple storylines that become intertwined. From an underage online stripper whose life changes when being contacted by a newscaster for an interview to a socially excluded high schooler who gets cyberbullied with a catfishing scam, the movie reveals many ways people can get disconnected from the real world. In the rest of the movie, we are shown that despite the unresolved disconnectedness of the virtual world, we can find connections in the real one.

The song: Father John Misty — Total Entertainment Forever

Pure Comedy, the 3rd album released by American musician Josh Tillman, under the name of Father John Misty, differs from his other albums with its baroque pop sound and a more political lyric content. In Total Entertainment Forever, the artist draws a dark picture about how putting technology before human life negatively affects society. The song shames us on our daily use of technology, telling us to cut back for the sake of future generations.

Source: Nwankwo, F., Shin, H. D., Al-Habaibeh, A., & Massoud, H. (2019). Evaluation of Children’s Screen Viewing Time and Parental Role in Household Context. Global Pediatric Health, 6.
Time To Be A Mama Again.
By: Deana Elwood, Head Bee
Tags: Parenthood, Teachers, Jobs, Parents, Parenting

With the end of the school year and Summer a day away, I can not wait to just be a mama again. Juggling teacher at home + answering to my toddler was indeed a lot. I quickly recalled my first year of teaching and late nights, but now as a mother, this was even harder.

Keeping up motivation for the students, trying to make the classes engaging from a computer screen even when 1/2 of their screens were not on, grading, screaming toddler in the background, meetings, making food, all this was a juggling act I wasn’t prepared for. I felt sad when my son would come up to me and I had to type notes for my class and tell him not now. I felt sad watching him sit alone playing with his cars. I know this is my job and so thankful to have it, but being home even if in a different room, he found me and wanted mama.

So as I turn the laptop off, put my lesson plan book away, and cheer for no more distance learning, I run to my son and embrace him with excitement. Excitement to eat breakfast together, morning walks, afternoon snuggles, and cupcake making! To all my mamas and dadas working and being a parent, you rock! This is one job that I will never regret applying for and so happy to have the title mama!
Boys Weekend
By: Dylan Wilkinson
Tags: Parenthood, Weekend, Personal Blog, Fatherhood, Lifestyle

January 4th through the 8th, while Danielle went to live it up in California, was boys weekend for me and Declan. I was a little nervous at first because this would be the longest I’ve gone without Danielle and the longest I’ve had Declan by myself, but let me tell you, it was a blast. Below are the specifics of what we did along with some photos. We’re planning on doing another one soonish so if you have any ideas, let me know!

Friday

We started out Friday after school just hanging out playing Mario Kart Wii and Nintendo NES. Then we ate dinner and finished the night with a movie. It was a pretty chill night and Declan was an angel. He always seems to listen better when Momma is away.

Saturday

Saturday was a busy day! We had a real estate shoot around noon for my brother then it was off to Beau’s birthday party! Which I was super nervous about by the way. Just something about a bounce house and a lot of kids doesn’t make me feel all happy inside. It’s just an accident waiting to happen for a paranoid Dad like myself. But we left with zero injuries, and really only a half of a meltdown. So in my books, that’s a win! After the party, we let the dogs out then went to see the new Spiderman movie thanks to good ole Uncle Stephen. Let’s just say the movie was amazing. If you’re into Spiderman or Marvel at all I definitely recommend you check it out! The soundtrack is amazing as well.