December - A Time for Reflection

One of the things I look to do at the end of each year is review what the year has been about and see if I can find what I have learned. Usually there are many lessons, the question is have I learned anything. I have been particularly reflective this year. Then I looked at my planning calendar which I used to plan out my business year and saw the theme which said: "Change: Embrace change and recognize that life is in constant motion. When boundaries are seen as opportunities, the world becomes a limitless place." For the record, no one was cited for that quote on my calendar.

I suddenly realized that this year my theme has been Embrace Change. My office moved, my son was diagnosed with major food allergies which required a whole new way of eating, we decided to homeschool our boys and my business focus is in transition to accommodate our new lifestyle. I have to admit there have been times during this year where I have felt paralyzed by the enormity of the changes. Any one change is enough to add stress, yet I had many major changes.

So what have I learned, hmm. I have learned

• it is okay to grieve what was,
• it is okay feel afraid,
• it is okay to ask for help,
• it is okay to fall apart for a little while,
• it is okay to take your time to heal,
• it is okay to take your time to work through the changes, and
• I don't have to have all the answers today. I make one decision at a time and then I look for the next right thing to do.

It has been an interesting journey, and one I could not have done without the help of my family, friends, coaches, business associates and most of all my God who has given me strength and a peace that surpasses all understanding during a time when I needed some peace. Here is a great quote that helps keep me on track when change hits me in the face. I hope it encourages you.

“Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending.” Maria Robinson

I figured it out -- I need a wife

I know that sounds strange, but after the last few weeks I realized was just what I needed. We just got through the our Christmas play at Church. The kids were amazing and were filled with the meaning of Christmas. We have been rehearsing since August, and I have to admit there have been times when I wanted to quit. It took a lot of prayer and determination to help the boys stick with it (and there were times they did not want to.) It also meant giving up every Sunday afternoon for play practice. That is a big thing for me. My Sundays are precious. I tend to unwind and get ready for my week. It meant hustling to coordinate work, home and kids. The last week was the worst. We had the play practice practically every night and the nights I did not have play practice, I had meetings. Needless to say the house was a bit of a wreck and our schedules were shot. Now add to that the Grandparents where coming in from out of town to see their darling in their first play. Did I mention the house was wreck? That is when it came to me, I needed a wife.

Even after all three performances, one Saturday and two Sunday, I found myself wishing I had a wife planning dinner or at least making lunch for the boys and I. Oh well, I will just have to clone myself.