Mothering during the Summer

Mom with three kids "Summertime and the livin' is easy..." -Gershwin It's summertime and the living is supposed to be easy. My summer has been anything but.  It's had cloudy days, tearful nights. And questions, lots of questions. It has had lies and betrayals. And relationships that have eroded beyond repair. It has brought me to my knees. And, it has required profound resolve to remember life's true meaning just to make it through. And  required the maturity to do what is right despite what I may be feeling. It has been a lot. It has been incredibly hard. And, it has taught me that I am incapable of being broken. So, even though summertime ain't been easy, this life is to be celebrated. Because like Gloria Gaynor, "I will survive!" And, I have. I am even thriving.

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!