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.
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Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Skyline Day Time


As it says in my profile, I live in Pittsburgh. However, I am not a 'Burgher. I have only lived here since November of 2004. A 'Burgher is someone who was born and raised in Pittsburgh. It's generally someone who understands that it's OK, and sometimes preferable, to have French Fries on a salad and who has eaten a sandwich at Primanti Brothers complete with Sauerkraut and more French Fries!

Pittsburgh is a city of opportunity. There are many opportunities for young people to get involved in everything from politics to philanthropy.

While Pittsburgh has come a long way, certain things remain the same. Football is the religion of choice and the Steelers are their gods. Don't get any ideas about coming to Pittsburgh for a game though. The games have been completely sold out for the past 30 years. You may be able to buy tickets from a scalper, or be the guest of a corporate sponsor, but there are no individual tickets to be purchased.

Pittsburgh Stadiums Shot

What Pittsburgh lacks in nightlife, it makes up for in charm. As everyone will tell you, in Pittsburgh, it's all about the neighborhoods. I live on the North Side within walking distance of downtown, near PNC Park (where the Pirates play) and near Heinz Field (where the Steelers play). It is close to the National Aviary and the the Children's Museum. In other cities, this home would have been outside of my price range, but in Pittsburgh nearly anything is possible.

If you are open minded, up for a challenge, and looking for a new opportunity, Pittsburgh may just be the place for you. Consider this an invitation into Chaton's World!