Monday, May 10, 2010

Post-Mother's Day thoughts

Yesterday was Mother's Day. I was fortunate to be able to see my own mom yesterday, and I thank her for her many years of love, wisdom, patience and guidance. I also saw my two sisters (also moms), my brothers-in-law and my four nephews. They are all amazing. C. and his kids joined us, and we had a great time.


I am not a mom. I am a stepmom. I am the first to tell you that those are two different things -- and that is not a bad thing. I will not get into all the differences here.


I do not feel "less than" by not being a mom. I might have my own children someday, and I will be proud to be a mom if I do. I also know that my life is valuable and worthwhile even if I don't.


I am a woman. I am a human. Both of those titles carry great meaning for me, and I believe that each human being has a special gift to share, and unique lessons to learn, regardless of his or her family status.


On Father's Day, I will post something similar for the guys, but today I honor all the girls and women I know: Thank you for just being you; thank you for being a gift to the people whose lives you touch - your family, your neighbors, your coworkers...; remember that your life has meaning and never let anyone take that from you by their words or actions; you are worth it.


I also want to stop and remember the people who have lost their mothers, as well as the women who would love to be mothers, but who can't be for whatever reason. Mother's Day is especially hard for them, and my heart goes out to them.


To everyone: Bottom line, be aware that the people around you are, for the most part, doing the best they can. Honor who they are and where they are in life. Remember to thank them, not just on one day of the year, but every day. Be kind.


We are all in this thing together and we are all different, but equal.

Friday, May 7, 2010

A break from it all...

C. and I just returned from a most amazing trip to the Canary Islands (part of Spain, but off the western coast of Africa). We stayed on Tenerife and had one night in Madrid on the return trip.


I truly enjoyed the European atmosphere combined with a low-key island lifestyle. We didn't see one other American until the night in Madrid, but we met several Brits and Germans. It was so refreshing to hear people speaking multiple languages and to experience life from a different perspective for several days.


After an incredibly stressful six months related to blended family issues, I can't even tell you how amazing it was to be away - far away - as just the two of us. Couples can reconnect on vacation in such a deep and meaningful way.


I don't have time to post a full trip report now, but I will share a few photos...