Name: Alpana Deo
Children & Age: I have one pretty angel (Shreya) who will be celebrating her 7th birthday in few months (that’s how she likes putting it)
Hometown/Current Location: I’m currently living in Houston, TX. I lived in Austin, TX for 6 years before moving to Houston.
Quick Bio: I have my Masters in Business Administration from India, where I worked some time, and after I got married, I came to the USA. That was 8 years ago. We are a sweet little family of three- me, my husband and our daughter. I have volunteered at a few organizations in Austin, and also written articles for Austin Local Newsletters. Besides working in management, writing is another area that I am passionate about. After taking up the mommy role, my perspective changed, and parenting topics were at the top. Two years ago, I started my own website ‘Mothers Gurukul’. ‘Gurukul’ is a Sanskrit word for a school in India. I felt this name best suited my website, as we all grew up in our parent’s gurukul (school). It is a place not only for moms but for everyone who love kids. I always say that Moms have to wear several hats in one day. Through this platform, I try to share my ideas and what I have experienced as a mom so far, like the Craft/DIY projects I do with my daughter and my kitchen experiments. I am a regular contributor for Bloggy Moms, Indian Moms Connect and have written several blogs/articles for other websites and Austin Newsletter.
Join me on my journey as a wife- mom-writer. You can find me on Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, Bloggy Moms, Indian Moms Connect. And obviously don’t forget to take a stroll on my very own place www.mothersgurukul.com.
Q: What is your favorite piece of advice to new Moms?
A: I can only say that motherhood is a beautiful journey with many turns & curves. Enjoy it to its fullest!! Sometimes we have to take different routes to reach a final destination, but one thing that is common in whichever route you pick, is the wellbeing of your child. Don’t give up. Every child is different. They will test you, but that will make you even stronger. Be their friend. Set a strong foundation that is built on confidence and trust. Kids are like those precious jewels that you would like to keep with you always but it’s not possible. Someday they have to move on. And the most important thing – believe in yourself.
Q: How would you describe your parenting style?
A: I would describe my parenting style as a combination of discipline and fun. When it comes to following certain things in a certain way, I am not an ‘its ok’ kind of a mom, but sometimes I do let it go. I feel parenting should not have only the two extremes; if it’s a blend of both, then it conveys the right message to kids as well.
Q: Share something you have learned about yourself since you became a Mom.
A: That’s my favorite so far question. I can go on and on… but I don’t want to make the bore you. One thing that I have learned about myself since I became a Mom is re-living my childhood days. Kids are our teachers I would say. They teach us how to find joy in small things, how to let it go and enjoy the present moment.
Q: Describe your “Haute Mom” (fashion) style!
A: Hmmm…to me what suits you; what makes you comfortable is your style. Following latest trend is good but not on the cost of carrying something that you don’t feel comfortable with; confident with. I love wearing Indian outfits but at the same time, I do like frocks and skirts too. You create your own style when you look confident with a nice smile on your face.