A Secret to Success as a Working Mom: Turn Burn Out Into Bliss and Embrace Joy

Last weekend my youngest was committed to going to the "Water Steps" a man-made water fall in Pittsburgh by the rivers. (Fun Fact: Three rivers converge in Pittsburgh--The Ohio River, The Monongahela River, and the Allegheny River.)  He kept asking. I knew he was serious when he said, "If you won't take me, I'll ask  daddy!" Given that it was highly unlikely that would happen on an unscheduled day, I relented. So, we went. It wasn’t planned in the way most things in my life are. No calendar block. No checklist. No “productive” purpose attached. And, so in some respects it was uncomfortable. And yet, it seemed necessary. It was the idea of my 8-year-old—offered with the kind of urgency only children possess when something is profoundly important to them.

Aunts are the angels God sends to children

Aunt and nephew

"[T]he model middle child is patient and likes to take care of everyone." -Jennifer Garner

My sister and my seven year old share the same birth order. They are  both the middle child. And this has given them a bond. She gets the challenges he has with distinguishing himself in a family with a talented and assertive older sister and a super cute, gregarious little brother. 

She listens to him and she helps him shine. She also came up with a song that has made him think that middle children are the absolute best. I love her for that!

The Middle Child Rock

The middle child rocks!!!

The middle child rules!!!

(Repeat both lines at the top of your lungs with gusto!)

It's been said that "[i]t takes a village to raise a child." That is absolutely true. My sister makes me a better mom because she compensates for me in areas where I am lacking. She is also much more fun than I will ever be!

Comments

Unknown said…
I agree. I really like "The Middle Child Rock's" chant. As a middle child and an Aunt. I can relate. What a good read.
Unknown said…
I agree. I really like "The Middle Child Rock's" chant. As a middle child and an Aunt. I can relate. What a good read.
Thank you!!!