Traveling Speaker with a Toddler

Preparing to go lead a 2-day retreat for Catholic school teachers, I left my babysitter and sister with five pages of instructions for one overnight that ended with a list of ways I’m a manic (basically things I’m terrified of: him drowning, choking, being kidnapped, going to preschool when he’s older and saying things like, “my mom’s tummy is squishy and I didn’t even grow in it..”).

I left yesterday feeling depleted and exhausted and a day later I was rushing back to see him, missing my little guy so badly it hurt. Earlier this week my sister said, “Wow.. I’m just realizing.. He’s really yours! Like, you’re his mom!” And I’m so glad I continue to feel that same amazement.

He is the sweetest, happiest, funniest, most clever boy. But I knew I was his mom when I didn’t care if he was or not. I knew he was mine when whatever challenges would come our way didn’t matter and I just wanted to be there for him. Illness, mistakes, bad attitudes, academic challenges, disrespect, even the days he doesn’t love me so much.. I was up for it all. Because it’s not his job to love me or make me feel valued.. It’s my job to fulfill my own life, to love him and make him feel valued. That is real parenthood.

I love speaking, especially to Catholic School teachers, but I’m sooo glad to be home and back to my bestest job as a mom.