Filling my cup and finding balance

Dear Readers, I finished my second week of work as a digital content creator at the local humane society. First off - can I just tell you how good to feels to do work that has a deep personal connection and that makes a noticeable and positive impact in the community? Doing meaningful work was always my professional goal in this season of my life. But I didn't know if my plan would come to fruition or in what form it would take. Though I would not trade a job that I love for the rich experience of motherhood, it does fill a different cup and makes me feel more... me. I will always lead with the role of mom and support it with the second. Remember, my blog who you are versus what you do? I've been very transparent in my writing that the identity change that comes with this new title has taken some adjustment. After nearly four decades as 'Melanie,' it takes me a minute to first respond to "Evangeline's mom." With these increased responsibilities of balancing Evangeline's needs and wants, digital content creation for the humane society and my own well-being come the increased challenge of walking the tightrope of taking care of myself physically, emotionally, spiritualty and intellectually. Based on many discussions with my mom friends, it seems that everyone faces this great challenge in their own way. Everyone needs a full cup with their beverage of choice, even though the individual situations differ.

This week, I close by saying I am joining the ranks of many other women and proudly carry two important titles of SAHM (stay-at-home mom) and working mom. I treat them like badges of honor and I'm fortunate that Nick and I have this privilege. Every day is a new opportunity to 'get it right' and I'm proud of myself for embracing this challenge. Though, I still have the occasional "learning moment," it's getting easier. I surprise myself with how much has come naturally. After eight months, I am finding a more consistent rhythm and am closer to striking the right balance with time management, focus and flexibility that both roles require. My cup is filling up.