“Unfiltered Mom” Speaks Reality
Recently, I was sent the book “Maternally Challenged” written by mom blogger Kathy Chlan, creator of the blog Unfiltered Mom. It was mesmerizing. Why? Because Kathy’s monumental challenges with her special needs son brought me back to a time in my life when I was coping with some hefty challenges of my own. Albeit quite different in the nature, Kathy captured what I had been feeling quite skillfully to the point that it sent chills up my spine! I had not expected that.
You see, at that particular moment in my life, my husband was suffering with Cancer in Mount Sinai Hospital (New York). It was enough to cope with already but then, the unexpected happened. One of my children became very ill too, and so he was rushed to Englewood Hospital and Medical Center (New Jersey). I almost lost it as I found myself struggling and driving between the two hospitals, trying to be there for both of my loved ones.
I remember alternating from one to the other, all the while asking God to keep my stamina and strength up. In there lies Kathy Chlan’s book. She too had her own “human” moments, offered up in every page of Maternally Challenged as well as post on her blog. She makes you feel less alone and absolutely O.K. Get to know her through her interview below.
What is your full name?
Kathy Chlan
What is your personal mantra?
Have courag;, be kind; and don't forget to laugh!
Share a bit about your life.
I am a mom to 2 boys - 22 & 25. The oldest is special needs and the younger one has a great heart and sense of humor. My mom lives with us and all we do is laugh as a family. I want to set up a video camera at dinner and just let the fun chaos begin.
Do you believe you have a “life’s purpose?” If so, share it.
My friend's all say it is that my life is like a sitcom. Makes you laugh and cry at the same time.
What is the name of your blog? When was it launched?
Unfiltered Mom. Launched about 5 years ago.
What is the primary focus of your blog and how is it different?
To let moms and women know that it is okay to not be perfect. Mostly, that laughing is better than crying. It will always put a positive and funny spin on life.
List your favorite social media marketing platforms.
I like Facebook and Instagram the best. You get to see the good, bad and the ugly. LOL.
What is the one piece of advice you would give to moms who may be interested in beginning a blog?
Just take a leap of faith and jump. Know that is gonna be work, but also could be your form of therapy. And it's free! No therapist to pay!
Are you an entrepreneur or professional beyond your blog (and outside of being a mom)? Please share.
I am an instructional assistant in an autism 2nd grade class.
Share the name of a blog you love outside of your own.
Do you support – either formally or informally – a particular social cause?
Just be kind. If everyone had that mantra how cool would the world be.
When all is said and done, how do you want to be remembered?
My kids would say that it was an adventure growing up with me. I guess that would be good. Made you laugh.
I believe the message in Kathy’s life, blog and book is simple --- less filter, more real...and don’t forget to be grateful for all of it. Is there any better way to welcome in the Thanksgiving holiday than to feature a mom blogger who lives lie according to these sentiments? I think not.
So it is in Kathy Chlan’s spirit, warmth, and goodness that I wish all of you a very “Happy Turkey Day” and will partake myself.