A Secret to Success as a Working Mom: Turn Burn Out Into Bliss and Embrace Joy

Last weekend my youngest was committed to going to the "Water Steps" a man-made water fall in Pittsburgh by the rivers. (Fun Fact: Three rivers converge in Pittsburgh--The Ohio River, The Monongahela River, and the Allegheny River.)  He kept asking. I knew he was serious when he said, "If you won't take me, I'll ask  daddy!" Given that it was highly unlikely that would happen on an unscheduled day, I relented. So, we went. It wasn’t planned in the way most things in my life are. No calendar block. No checklist. No “productive” purpose attached. And, so in some respects it was uncomfortable. And yet, it seemed necessary. It was the idea of my 8-year-old—offered with the kind of urgency only children possess when something is profoundly important to them.

A Peek Into the Life of a Working Mom: Independence Day Weekend

This past weekend we got to have family time to celebrate the Fourth of July. For me, the Fourth of July means, family fun, and fireworks! This combination is always good!  

Bruegger's Independence Day Bagel

Family Fun, and Fireworks


Anybody who has kids understands that it is important to keep them stimulated. One way to do that is learning what they like.  I have learned that my daughter likes to socialize. And the people with who she likes to socialize with most are her cousins.  Something about the word, "cousin" resonates with her and she seems to understand that family time is special.


Toddler with her cousins

So when we got invited to celebrate the Fourth of July at my Uncle Terry and Aunt Donna's house, I jumped at it.  The Independence Day celebration proved to be what we hoped for and more.


My daughter was amazed by the home fireworks!

Talking about Independence, I was somewhat free of childcare responsibilities for the entire visit. My daughter was traipsing around with the clan of cousins for our entire visit. There were seven of them ranging from 9 years old-3 1/2 months. So, I could relax somewhat knowing that the 9 year old had more sense than my toddler.  Also,  I was not the only responsible adult present there were parents and grandparents there galore. Even my husband joined us.  So, I was also blessed to have several willing aunties to hold the baby. So, even though it may have been a little impolite, I took a nap. This may have been the Best Fourth of July celebration ever!

An auntie loving the baby (I took a nap right after taking this photo)



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