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

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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.
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My Son's Third Birthday

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Birthday Boy

“May the joy that you have spread in the past come back to you on this day. Wishing you a very happy birthday!” Anonymous

On this day three years ago, I gave birth to a little boy who is already making the world a better place with snuggles and smiles. He has a bright light what shines from his eyes and radiates in through his smile. Indeed, he draws in everyone who is in his presence and just like me they long to be close to him.


I am not being hyperbolic. When he began daycare, I was surprised at how many teachers from other rooms knew his name. I later learned that they would come down to hold him when they needed a "pick-me-up" because holding him made them feel better. (It was before COVID19 erupted. So, it was OK.)

An outtake from the holiday photo shoot
 
When I heard that, I knew that he was truly special. Although I'd feel like that anyway because I'm his mom, the comments of those teachers let me know that it was bigger than me. He is here for a purpose and it is my job to help him find it.

A day at daycare

As his mom though, he gives me so much joy. He can brighten my entire world with his smile. During the pandemic I have had the opportunity to spend more time with him. He is so much fun. He enjoys Paw Patrol, all things Nick Jr., and he enjoys spending time with his siblings.  He also gives the very best hugs!

Having him exist makes my own existence more worthwhile. And, my purpose is to provide him with everything he needs to succeed. I feel so honored to have been chosen to be his mom.  And I cherish every day that I have been given to share with him. So, from the bottom of my heart, I wish him the happiest year of all!


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