All Things, To All People

It can't be done.

Not if you're 47, overweight, 15 years married with a 7 y.o. active son and working a job that commands 50-70 hours a week.

And if you're like me, it feels like a challenge to be met. "What do you mean I can't do it all!?"

But realistically, you can barely be all things to one of those things.

Then, exhausted, you capitulate. "Uncle!"

That's when the loving husband says, "Hey, I've got this stock I could sell. I know we should probably do some of the condo work, or pay a bill, but I think you... well, 'we' need a vacation." Normally, the practical side of me would respond, "you're right, we need to do work on the condo..." his face drops..."but, we NEED a vacation. I'm in!" He beams, "I didn't think you'd say, 'yes'?!" I'm glad we're both pleasantly surprised.

Alex is over the moon, when we tell him...Orlando. Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Pool. Fun, fun, fun!

I don't know how many times in the last 6 months my son has asked me to quit my job because he never sees me, or I'm working too much at home, or I haven't been home to put him to bed or seen him the next morning. This vacation would give us that much needed family time. No distractions, no emails, just us all together, playing and talking.

And, time for hubby and I to reconnect. Well, reconnect the best you can with two queen beds in the hotel room, one containing a worn out little boy. Doesn't exactly ignite the libido, but just being away from both our jobs and de-stressing does amazing things for a couple.

We returned with a few days at home, piddlin' around. And topped off vacation with dinner with friends we hadn't seen in 4 years.

Reconnecting... on all levels... family... child... friends...

The only way to be all things to all people, is to be a deity. I don't quite think I'm deity material, so I guess I'm relegated to doing the best I can, for the ones who need it the most from me.

And to do this, priorities have to be reset, time needs to be better allocated, and rejuvenation is necessary!  I also have to be a little easier on myself, give myself a break, so to speak.

I want to be a good mom. I want to be a good wife, a good worker, a good daughter, a good friend.

I don't have to be "groundbreaking"... but I can be good at some, very good at others.

And the family I have, the friends I've chose and who have chosen me, understand... and are willing to meet me half way.

My work? Work I can adjust with the right hires, and the right (rested and rejuvenated) attitude, it can be done... done well, and still have time for my family and friends.

Compromise. Forgiving yourself. Asking for help. Rejuvenation. Dialogue. Love.

It may not be all things, to all people... but it is doing your best for those that are willing work with you.

Alex & Daddy run quickly from the TRex