Balance

Right now I hold up to three jobs. I know I have mentioned that here before, but it's true. And it's exhausting. I proof read and copy edit scientific papers, I write in this space, I work part time at a summer camp as a sales/marketing guru (oh yes, guru), I am a co-partner with a dear friend in our PeaceLove Swap Venture, and I am a mom...oh and I sort of have a shop on Etsy. Ok, that's like SIX jobs. No wonder I am tired.

The point is that lately I have hit a wall and need some more ME time. More than one gets during that  five minutes in the bathroom now and then during the day. I do look forward to those times, though...deep breath.

 Typically in this space I don't like to be a complainer. That's not what this blog is all about (oh, heavens no). This blog is about the happy, peaceful and inspiring moments from my daily life. Brief snapshots of what I have been exploring, working, or experiencing with myself and family.

Recently a coworker at the camp was talking about a bit of wisdom she received from a dance teacher when she was a child. The teacher was pregnant and had announced that she would be leaving her job to spend the time with her family. The little dancers wanted to know why, and this is what the teacher replied:

" If you drop your career life you will be able to pick it back up and start a new. If you drop your family life it will shatter, never to be put back together."

I paused and considered what my coworker had just shared. Her words lingered. I brought them home. I shared them with my husband. I shared them with one of my best friends from High School. And now I find myself sharing them in this space with you. Funny how the world presents you with little wake-up calls. If only I would listen more often. Clearly, this is my wake-up call to readjust my 3  6 jobs to bring my life back into balance.

Don't worry I won't be giving up on this space. It brings me far too much happiness, and reading all of your loving comments always makes me want to continue. No, I will be saying my farewells to some of my other occupations. In hopes to spend more time with those I love and doing those things that make my heart sing.

Do you find yourself struggling with finding that balance too? What has been occupying your time recently?

Gasping For Air & Meet Tucker the Turtle

 Meet Tucker the Turtle, the breathing mask my son has had to wear the last several days as he's been battling pneumonia. Our home has been transformed into small infirmary, and I have taken on the role of nurse in addition to the main source of comfort to a very uncomfortable toddler.

  Our daily rhythm has slowed down quite immensely this past week. Although we have been driving back and forth to the hospital, our typical daily happenings have basically settled into a flurry of breathing treatments, rest, slow walks around the block, and more rest.

Our Easter plans with family have been put on hold as we find ourselves in a place of holding. Breathing slowly, surely, and knowing our breath and usual pace of life will return to us soon. The situation is frightening at times, but I have never had clearer and intentional interaction with my son and family. In a way, it is it's own kind of rebirth.


Here's to a peaceful and successful recovery. Wishing you and your family peace, health, and a few quiet moments this weekend. I will see you back in this space on Monday.


XOXO,
Julia