Comfort zone

All summer my girls and I rendered an unscheduled plan. They decided last minute to participate in sports outside of their comfort zone and tried something new. And, they loved it! We explored new sites in our local area. And, while they say they would have gone to Hawaii or somewhere exotic. They loved it! The selfies prove it.

I think my most memorable part of the summer was having the long conversations at the pool with my family. Hearing the girls banter back and forth through board games and just dance on the wii. We all said that we wanted an exotic vacation but of course money and time were limitations. In the end, we had a staycation in one of our favorite local cities. And, we enjoyed some great family time. Long overdue family time and made some great memories. When I ask my girls what some highs of the summer was for them...it was getting to experience vacation, beach days and day excursions with their baby sister. It warms my heart! This is what its all about!

When I look at all the pictures from the summer and the start of a new school year, I smile at the fact, we all went outside of our comfort zone. We visited new places, we all tried new things, we enjoyed each other's company and my children have grown a new appreciation for going outside of their comfort zone.

A new school year with my oldest starting high school without her friends from junior high. I am proud of her for making a choice herself. She acknowledge her fear of not knowing anyone going with her  from her previous school but still forged ahead. And, on the first day, meet a core group of friends and signed up for ASB. When I asked her if she regretted going to a different school from her friends, she said no. She is sticking by her decision, even though I know she feels bad when she sees pictures of her friends on social media.She is creating a path for herself. She if confident in her decision. She is forming new bonds.On top of this, joining a new sport at a new school. And, training on her own. Her summer of nesting at home and her experience from junior high has created a new young lady.

B

My middle child starting junior high has started without a hitch. She has adapted well. My shy child has made new friends and despite not having all her friends in her classes or at lunch, she has maintained a positive outlook. What stands out the most for me is her ability to adapt. Not only has our scheduled changed but she has taken initiative to be responsible for herself and helping out at home with her baby sister.

And, just while we started the new year, I go outside of my comfort zone to take on a new position with a new company. I'm not sure how crazy this year will be but I welcome the change. And, like my girls, I will go outside of my comfort zone. I am setting an example for my girls. They are watching me. I want to do them right by creating opportunities for growth within myself so they can see it is important to be a Mom at home and a Career Mom. I am beyond grateful for this opportunity. I can still be the kind of Mom who is present when they need me and balance a career.I am grateful to my husband who is supportive and allows me the opportunity to be the kind of mom and wife that fits our family.

Against the current

I'm not of this generation. And, I'm glad I am not. I was brought in a different world. There was value in life, respect for the elder and compassion for humanity. I feel a heavy burden for this new generation being brought into this world of materialism and violence.
The news is depressing. I remember being 6 months pregnant with my oldest when 9-11 occured live. I felt like I was in a movie. And, I prayed to my Almighty savior because I knew my child was up against a current. The values that I was brought up in was something I would share with my unborn child. And, now I see with more fervent belief what a necessity it will become for her as she starts junior high.
I am shocked by the stories I hear of how kids these days behave and yet not surprised. How is it possible that we have the expectation that our children behave responsible, respectfully and honorably if they are not taught these positive traits early in life? Don't we as a society owe it to the children to be better examples? And, I say yes!!!! Not just for our children and our children's children.
Be mindful of your thoughts which turn into your words which then lead to your actions. It is a challenge I ask of each one of you. Everyday! Catch yourself thinking positive and choose to be happy. Inspite of any challenges. Let's see how your day, your life, your family, our community can be transformed into a better world. One day at a time.