Friday, May 15, 2015

on tuning in, and tuning out

These past few months have been so filled with all the good stuff----parties, people, connecting, art, messes, sleepovers, dinners, dates, drinks.  The closer I get to the big 4-0, the more I crave spending time doing things that I love to do, with the people that I love to do them the most with.  John and I have officially found our favorite local hangout spot, and we try to sneak out as much as possible for real life adult dates!  It's addicting.  You know...because we can actually talk, without someone farting on us or filming their own makeup tutorial or fighting over homework or...

So pretty much the best thing ever.

The older I get, the more I literally c.r.a.v.e. listening to people's stories.  I'm that annoying person leaning on the counter at the tire shop, listening to the guy pour his guts out to me about his life story.  I try to order a coffee and the next thing I know I'm hugging people and taking numbers.  I could sit for hours and hear about why people are the way they are and why they've ended up where they are (as long as it's not past my bedtime.  And in that case, shhhhhhhhhhhh....).  I mean it though, if you've got a story to tell, come to me.  Sit down and tell it, because I'm all ears. 

In other news, gone are the days that I give a rats-ass about what people are thinking of me.  I've stopped reaching out for people's approval of my choices.  I'm all about hearing people talk, unless they're waxing poetic about why I should rethink something I've chosen to do.  It's absolutely liberating, because now there are no limits.  2015 has some big surprises on the horizon, some incredible things that I certainly wouldn't be doing if I were seeking outside approval.  There are tiny little tough moments of wondering what others will think, but I try my best to take a deep breath and let it wash over me.  Stay tuned for more on this!

I'm simultaneously tuning in, and tuning out!

++++

Now we're moving into heavy softball season.  All three kids are playing sports now---Lu's in teeball, Joey's playing spring and summer hockey, and Gray is on two softball teams.  Being a working mom who's mostly a stay-at-home mom while my husband
travels, and getting everyone where they need to be is a challenge.  Luckily I've got the best support team in town and there is always someone willing to help me split myself into three places at once.  Shout out to all my friends who save my butt on the daily!

As we finally are able to enjoy the spring weather, I'm getting ready to leave for Squam for eight days.  This will be the longest time I'll be away from the kids, as well as the longest time I've ever been at Squam.  I'm blessed to be able to be on the team this year because I believe so deeply in the beauty that is Squam Art Workshops.  I get to work (with a bit of play), doing something I love!  I long for the hustle and bustle of getting everyone settled, setting up the parties, pumping the kegs, and making the magic happen.  John and my parents will be holding down the fort while I'm gone.  All will be as it should.  All will be well.  (I keep repeating this in my head to make myself feel better). 

Off to go make a big pile of tulle into something lovely and magical!  Then headed away for the night to paint and make jewelry with friends.  It's a charmed life, I tell you.  Tell me what you've got cooking up... xoxo