Family and Balance

Time marches on.  Another month goes by - a rather exciting one giving us a new president, a family trip to Michigan and a relaxing Thanksgiving at home.  Isaac is approaching 3 months (still only sleeping a 4 hour, then 2 hour chunks at night...) and Carter will be 3 next week.  Lars and I had our first "date night" since Isaac was born, courteous of Grandma Anne (thank you!)  We went with some friends to eat pizza and watch some ski movies at the Stowe Mountain Film Festival.  I think I was trying to relive my ski bum days.  Somehow trying to remind myself that I have not always been an exhausted mom, spending my days cooking, cleaning and trying to fulfill the needs of two needy boys.  There was a time before kids (BK) where I was able to travel at a moments notice, sleep in until noon, and read a book without pictures.  Even now, I'm typing this post with Isaac asleep on my lap - always a mom.  Kids first, then you. It's my new way of living.  It is funny how three years ago, I dreamed of the day we would have a family, and now I dream of the days BK.  Don't get me wrong, I love my boys so much it hurts.  But I have to make sure I don't forget who am.  Balance is so hard to achieve.  I am awed by all the mothers and fathers that have gone before me and look for inspiration from them.  I follow my brother and sister-in-law closely as well.  If anyone is seeking balance, I know they are.  Marc - thanks for your posts and know that it is helpful to hear your stories.  If anyone wants to check out www.caringbridge.org/visit/meredithwhitman please do.  My sister-in-law Meredith has been recovering from surgery from a brain tumor.  I was excited to receive a phone call from her and her family this week - the first time I'd heard her voice on the phone since the whole ordeal started in February.  Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

As we start a new month, I am striving to seek balance, love my family and rediscover the parts of me that I pushed aside.  While I am a mother, I am also a wife and, at the heart of it, I am Susan.  I need to find her again....

        Before kids.....