Life Lessons

It can always be better and it can always be worse.

I live my life to the fullest, but I'm not a martyr trying to live up to a mythical parenting standard.   I'm extremely fortunate, but I stress trying to juggle the demands of my marriage, my young daughters, an old dog, friends, myself and a full-time job. I am an optimist and I am a realist and I have a lot of satisfaction in and gratitude for my life.

Here's how: I take a few minutes each day to focus on myself and ensure that I'm OK. If I'm not, then I figure out the issue and deal with it. Sometimes I'm just tired so I allot time to go to bed earlier. Other times I just take some time to sit still and not think. Usually once I recognize the problem (i.e. I'm tired or neglecting a need), then I can vocalize what I need and ask for help. If I can't change the circumstances, I change my reaction and make peace with it.  This too shall pass.  I've learned that if I ignore my needs everything will fall apart very quickly. I have negotiated a flexible schedule by sacrificing some evenings/weekends as necessary. My daughter loves that I come to her school every week and I have some fun too. Working with kids (both low and high achievers) definitely helps me remember what is important so I appreciate my family. I'm not perfect, nor do I want to be, but I find peace in knowing that I've done what I can do and remembering there will always be more to do. Life is a journey, not a destination.

All we can do is our best and find a way to make it work. I consciously choose not to judge my life by material standards and focus on family time and expanding our community. I'm trying to teach my girls that you can only control how you react to life and inner peace comes from letting go of everything else. Live your life being true to yourself and that will ensure your kids can handle whatever they life throws at them, including granting yourself some peace. Don't stop dreaming about what your passions are, but don't expect it to just happen to you. Step outside of your comfort, take a risk and grow. Don't allow dwelling on "woulda coulda shoulda". And never stop hoping.  Send out a positive vibe and focus on constructive energy.  (And it's okay to hide out every great once in a while to recharge and get some alone time.)

My daughters:  I love you and it is a huge honor to be your mother.