Taking Stock

I have been taking stock in how fortunate I am. I have lived in several places and met many amazing people along the way. Last Friday I spoke with my friend Angie from AZ. Angie is one of those people who would never believe how much I admire her. When I think life is rough and the last couple of weeks while Sia has been traveling and I have been working, trying to manage the kids, the commute and other responsibilities, I admit I have been feeling like my life is complex. Then I feel like an idiot when I realize how incredibly fortunate I am. My struggles are high level struggles and I am lucky to have such problems. It was learning that Angie's eldest daughter, Marissa, is on her way to serve in the Peace Corps. that I was reminded of how much I admire Angie. Being a parent and a good parent is such an incredibly hard job - the toughest I've ever attempted. When you see children become successful and making a difference in the world there can be no better payment for the years of strife. My pride in Marissa's accomplishments are an extension of my admiration for her mother. Angie, is focused and accomplished as a single mom with 3 incredible kids who are all focused and accomplished individuals. Angie always had a commute from Palominos, AZ to anywhere (I don't think Palominos is even on many maps - I even wonder if it is on Google Earth)and I complain about my SLC/Sandy commute. Angie woke up in the night with her kids, and every morning fixed them a hot breakfast - I am talking eggs, bacon and oatmeal everyday! I rarely get coffee made and can barely manage to get a bagel defrosted for the kids in the morning because I am up in the night with Arian. I have an incredible support system from my husband, parents, grandparents, in-laws and huge extended family, community and friends. Angie has managed all of this with none of these supports (OK, so she has some friends). Even Angie's support system is complicated and heart breaking. I know it seems odd to write about a contemporary like this but it was such a reminder for me to reflect on all the good things I have including knowing my friend Angie and her family after speaking with her last week. Last night as I drove home late from a board meeting I saw an incredible sunset over the Great Salt Lake, I was in awe and felt fortunate just to have that opportunity. Some may think I am such an emotional, rambling, cheese ball but I recognize how incredibly lucky I am and I am taking stock.