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Keeping the Peace between All Our Passions
I have a job. I work. I bring home the bacon. I work “outside the home.” This has now become the politically correct way of acknowledging that being a parent is a job in and of itself. An incredibly rewarding one, but one that pulls on every heartstring and takes every ounce of energy you have. So, just to make sure everyone knows, I actually have two full-time jobs.
I am truly in the thick of it – with a 15, 13 and 10-year-old. All three play two sports year round. The ongoing list of volunteer activities, PTO meetings, choir concerts, homework help, piano lessons, driving lessons, Girl Scouts and birthday parties is enough to make one nutty. I’ve gone so far as to color code activities by kid so my husband and I can determine the most efficient direction to head every evening.
Sound like nirvana? It may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it’s what makes our family tick. We believe being a part of all these things makes us better humans…no matter what age. When I first interviewed at StoneArch, I promised myself that I would be forthcoming about all of my kids’ activities and all of the volunteer work and passions that feed my soul. When I revealed this to the folks I met at StoneArch, rather than hesitation or concern, I received support, words of encouragement and an acknowledgement that what makes a person who they are involves all parts of their life – not just their career.
Those positive vibes that I received didn’t end with the interview process. I’m 9 months in and have that sense that I’m where I’m supposed to be. People care. They care about me, about my family and about our work. Heck, even my StoneArch buddies without kids will sit and listen to the story of my son’s first high school dance and how crazy the orthodontist bills are! This place makes all those things possible. Now don’t get me wrong…we have deadlines, we have clients, we have late nights, and we have a business to run. But keeping the balance and keeping the peace between all of our passions pays off for all of us.
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Comments
posted on:
02/03
Carolyn,
I truly am happy to read your self analysis. I often felt that you were biting off a bit more than you could chew; however, as long as you can recognize and stay within your limits, more power to you.
Love you lots,
Dad
posted on:
02/03
You do it well, dear daughter! We love and admire you.
Love,Mom and Dad
posted on:
02/03
The key is to realize that this time is fleeting and precious, no matter how busy. There will be a time when you look back at this stage in your life and be grateful that you could have it all…..and you are not only feeding all of oyur passions, you are a wonderful role model for your kids.