One Secret to a Working Mom Success: Celebrate the Seasons With Traditions

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Greetings from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania ! Things have been busy. I am still a working mom of three, working full time who is trying to make a difference. I do a lot of things and try to be present so that I can learn from them. I share them on this blog so that we can learn together. Below are some thoughts, hacks, and/or lessons that I have learned from navigating my world. "Family traditions counter alienation and confusion. They help us define who we are; they provide something steady, reliable and safe in a confusing world."— Susan Lieberman   Traditions have a way of defining a family, provide stability and give hope. They are especially important for woking moms who spend so much time working to provide for their family that they may miss some of the "traditional" mom things like bake sales, volunteering at the book fair, and a host of actual and seemingly made up holidays.  They are also important for families trying to reinvent themselves in the wake of d...
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The other end of the line...

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This weekend reminded me that life is exciting because you never know what’s going to happen.

I received two unexpected phone calls this weekend. I answered both. One was negative, one was positive, but each taught me something.

Let’s get the bad one over with…

I received a phone call on Sunday morning that caused me to wake up to controversy. I could have chosen not to answer the phone. That would have been the wisest choice based on past history. However, I am an eternal optimist and I took a chance. Sometimes that pays off and sometimes it doesn’t. Let’s just say that it didn’t pay off this time.

I answered the phone and received criticism, ridicule, and insult. What a way to start the day?! In the past, I would have allowed the call to derail my entire day. Fortunately, I have grown and the day wound up being just splendid. I even ended it with a most enjoyable call with a friend that I haven’t spoken to in a while.

I received a good call as well…

On Saturday, I received a surprise phone call from a friend. It was as if I had thought him up. He came over for a visit, which brightened my day.

I answered the door and received compliments, charm, and engaged in interesting conversation. Unlike the phone call, it was a welcome interruption into my day. In the past, I would have ruined the moment by trying to read too much into it. However, I have grown; and I was able to appreciate the visit for what it was—a wonderful treat.

Upon reflection, life is about balance. The good will come. The bad will come. And we have to figure out how to appreciate both. I was also reminded that I pay for Caller ID for a reason. I may not be able to avoid all negativity, but I can avoid that negative morning caller!

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