…even if just for a day or two.
After all, you have achieved great things.
So why not step up on that Olympic Pedestal and receive some well deserved accolades?
Let’s start with Patience and Stamina.
For these achievements, you are receiving the coveted Sherpa Award.
Even though you don’t live in the Himalayas, you are clearly a long lost cousin of this elite mountaineering tribe.
Your stamina and patience is evidenced by your ability to stay calm in the face of a screaming red-faced toddler standing with hands on hips refusing broccoli, getting dressed, leaving the supermarket, going to the supermarket or letting go of her sister’s hair.
You have also earned a Medal in Magicianship for your ability to make things appear and disappear as needed.
Case in point: Your ability to make the challenges that seem insurmountable – completely disappear, are legendary. How did you work out that challenge with the “impossible” history teacher or the bully at school?
And presto! When it comes to making things appear; you produce water, string cheese, gum, tissues, Chapstick and pacifiers at a moment’s notice.
And let’s not forget the Barnum and Bailey Plaque for Contortion. This is for the incredible flexibility you show when your child forgets to bring her lunchbox home from school for the 5th time in one month.
And the rubber-like quality you exhibit when your teenager asks to be picked up at 4pm – then texts you to say it will be more like 6pm and then calls at 5pm to see if you can get him right NOW.
Who could forget the way you turned yourself into a human pretzel; helping your child find the right piano teacher and the right outfit for her Birthday Party?
Of course it goes without saying that you have earned the Nobel Peace Prize for your work with the various factions within your own home.
You repeatedly manage to negotiate win-win solutions to problems such as “who gets the front seat,” “who slugged who first,” and “who had every right to slug that person because of what she said.” Jimmy Carter and George Mitchell WISH they had your talents for striking a fair bargain.
And finally, you have earned the Aphrodite Trophy, which should be prominently displayed on your mantle. This is for the love and comfort you provide.
It shows up in everything you do. The squeezes of affection. The sleepless nights next to a sick child. The willingness to read the same story so often that you no longer need to actually read it.
The willingness to tell your child no. The special foods you make. The power you have to make people feel better just by saying “it will be ok.” The joy you take in watching your child dance, play music and sleep.
The list is endless, but you get the idea.
Enjoy a moment to yourself. You have earned it.
Coach Me Quick Tips for Taking a Rest!
1. At least once per day, notice what you do well and give yourself a pat on the back.
2. Take the time to notice how your friends handle the challenges of life and if you see something you appreciate in their behavior, let them know. Everyone loves to be acknowledged.
3. Put something fun on your calendar that you can look forward to.
4. Laugh and giggle. See the humor in each and every day.
Snuggling my trophies in L.A.,
Jamee
Photo credit: Boston Public Library via Compfight