“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.”
Dr. SeussSome may say that love makes the world go round - but you need to have relationships to use as a mode of transportation for that love. We humans have many types of relationships. We have causal aquaintances, like
those we get to know at our local shops or our children's teacher or friend's parents. Then there are the deeper relationships we share with friends and family.And like Dr. Seuss says, those in your life who accept you for who you are, the good, bad, and ugly (ok well that was Clint Eastwood) are those who matter and should matter in your life. Throughout my life relationships have come and gone, some really hurt but some I am glad ended, but I am thankful for all the experiences I have had as I have learned from each and every one of them.
You can check out my old blog (http://www.kidsneedtoplay.wordpress.com) to find out more about me and my childhood relationships, but here I want to share some thoughts about my current relationships.
My Husband-I have been married to my husband now for 9 years. We have been through a lot, but we have been through it together. He has put up with all my academic adventures being supportive and encouraging, even when it is hard. Marriage is hard and anyone who tells you different is a liar.
My Daughters - I have three daughters- right now they are 23,21, and 9. Each one is unique and each taught me what "temperament" means.
My oldest, Bethany is married and has a little boy, Logan, who will soon turn a year old in February. Besides her family, her passion is photography and design. Check out here website: http://afterblissphotography.blogspot.com/. It is very rewarding to be able to take our relationship from little girl to teen to mother fairly smoothly. I believe we are committed to being intentional about spending time together, and that makes me happy!
Rachel, my middle child, has had many adventures already in her life. She joined the military to become a linguist. Language (and drama) is her passion. It was very challenging for me to let her go and let her do her thing - but we have a great relationship, mother/daughter, and friend. Due to an injury she was not able to complete the training and came home. She enrolled in college and plans on attending University of Redlands in the Fall of 2012 to continue her language studies. We share the love of musical theatre, great food and movies, and she is close to my youngest. Again I believe we have a great relationship because we make the time for it.
Katelyn is the "baby" of the family. As a working mom it is very important to spend time with her often, but it is very challenging. I try to plan family outings when she is out of school and so far this has worked well.
Our family enjoys camping and exploring interesting places both local and around California. We take pictures and put scapbooks together. Making memories is important. Making time is important.
I think what makes my family work is that I have always seen each member as UNIQUE - just as I see each child in my class. Each has their strengths and weaknesses, and I have always encouraged all around me to do their very best, whatever that means, and I will always love you. My grandmother use to tell me that she would love me whether I was a doctor, astronaut, or ditch digger, it didn't matter to her as long as I was doing what made me happy. I take this philosophy of encouragement into my work life; I want to see all the people around me, whether children or co-workers succeed and meet their goals. These partnerships sharpen each other and in return make for great environments to work and learn in. My hope is that all this positive energy is paid forward and passed on so that our world can be a better place.
Nine tenths of education is encouragement.
-Anatole France
