What's the Business | Life Update and the balancing I am doing my best at.

What’s Happening in My Hood: A Life Update

Greetings, my dear followers! It’s been a while since I shared a life update, and let me tell you, there’s been a whirlwind of experiences lately—some overwhelming and others not quite hitting the mark. So, let’s dive back into the rhythm and start from the top!

Family Matters: A Bittersweet Journey

The family is holding up well, all things considered. School life has taken center stage, keeping everyone on their toes. My son is navigating the final stretch of his high school journey—a bittersweet realization. His plate is full of Ag-FFA commitments and preparation for the future. We’re deep in applications for future plans and scholarships! Witnessing the transformation from a preschooler, when I used to carry a backpack, to the responsible young man who now carries the weight of the world for me. It blows my mind!

Senior year milestones are looming—the iconic senior pictures, cap, and gown fittings, and the celebration for graduation. The emotions that accompany this process are nothing short of overwhelming. Wasn’t it just yesterday that I was handling his backpack and lunchbox? Now, he effortlessly manages everything, leaving me in awe. He’s become a remarkable blend of responsibility, and kindness, and is a bright light for anyone’s day. It’s truly a gift to witness him evolve into a strong, capable, and faithful young man.

Nurturing Brilliance in the Face of Challenges

In the same boat, yet charting a unique and head-spinning course—my daughter, currently navigating the turbulent waters of 7th grade, harbors lofty aspirations. Although she presently attends a Christian private school, there will most likely be educational changes on the horizon. Every school grapples with its own set of issues, but a concern at her current school is the unsettling prevalence of bullying, often swept under the rug rather than met with substantive consequences.

The toll of this environment on my daughter has been significant, as she found herself entangled in drama fueled by illegal actions from fellow students. Despite the efforts of some staff and teachers to provide support, the responsibility ultimately falls on my shoulders as a parent to free her from this unhealthy situation. It’s disheartening to witness her brilliance overshadowed by the need to seek counseling, a consequence of others’ lack of control, and the pervasive culture of gossip- even by the teachers.

In the face of adversity, my daughter has demonstrated remarkable resilience. I’ve emphasized to her that if it doesn’t concern the LORD or SCHOOL, she shouldn’t feel compelled to entertain it—a sentiment met with shared laughter. Yet, the desire for a school environment free from the toxicity of teacher gossip and drama is sensible. She seeks a balance that encourages independence without sacrificing the support and encouragement crucial for growth.

Despite these challenges, I’m brimming with pride and excitement for what lies ahead. Her intellect consistently shines through high test scores, and the prospect of new faces, challenging academics, and a supportive sports team fills her with anticipation. Life’s inevitable ups and downs will persist, but with the right balance and encouragement, her journey towards independence will unfold in a nurturing environment—one that acknowledges her strengths and celebrates her resilience.

The Pillar of Support: My Amazing Husband

In the hustle and bustle of life, my husband stands tall as the strength and pillar of support for our family. A true force of determination, he tirelessly handles the demands of work and home, striving to be there for everyone. It’s a juggling act that he masters with dedication for all of us.

Each day begins with a routine that reflects his commitment to well-being and productivity. From early morning workouts to diving into a sea of emails, he tackles the day head-on. The unpredictability of his schedule means that some days he’s at home, orchestrating remote meetings and managing household affairs, while others see him crisscrossing the city, still juggling numerous responsibilities. The stress is there but he keeps a smile on his face.

Throughout this whirlwind, his unwavering devotion to family shines through day after day. Balancing the needs of his loved ones with professional obligations, while still being the hands-on father and a loving partner. The guilt that occasionally creeps in, a product of a past riddled with feelings of inadequacy, serves as a reminder of the challenges he has triumphed over.

Raised in an environment that often cast shadows of shame and guilt, my husband has taught me resilience. It’s a testament to his strength and character that he has risen above the ghosts of his past. I have to remind him continually of his greatness. He works tirelessly, not just for himself, but for the well-being and happiness of our family. Despite the symphony of snores, he is, without a doubt, an extraordinary husband and an exceptional father.

Navigating the Storm: Balancing Acts of Work, Health, and Happiness

In the dance of life, I find myself juggling multiple roles, each demanding its pound of flesh. My primary gig in Admin education, while fulfilling, has become a tightrope walk of overwork and being underappreciated. Excelling at what I do has paradoxically led to an ever-increasing workload, exacerbated by the presence of an office clown whose antics inject toxicity into our professional space. It leaves me questioning whether our superiors find it amusing or if they are simply indifferent to the havoc it wreaks on the rest of us.

Beyond my full-time responsibilities, I’m deeply entwined in other projects — marketing for various groups, managing this blog, and gearing up to run my husband’s new business site. The sheer volume of responsibilities weighs heavily on my shoulders, and while I acknowledge my replaceability, the underlying issues persist.

The toll on my health has become unmistakable. Three seizures in less than three weeks have left me feeling physically and emotionally battered. Loss of feeling in extremities, persistent aches, abnormal sensations, and an overall sense of imbalance have become unwelcome companions. My body’s cry for help manifests in myriad ways — from hair loss to burning eyes and a stomach that rebels against the mere thought of food.

In this storm, the emotional landscape is equally turbulent. A profound sense of unhappiness has settled in, a heavy fog that refuses to lift. Despite these challenges, the determination to find a balance persists, fueled by the understanding that my well-being must be a priority.

Embracing Healing: A Journey to Wellness

I’ve sought peace in the arms of healing and self-discovery. A recent visit to the neurologist prompted changes to my seizure medication, with an EEG in the future to delve deeper into my health. This, coupled with alterations to my diet and workout routine, marks a conscious effort to reclaim control over my physical well-being.

But the journey doesn’t stop there. Recognizing the need for a mental cleanse, I’ve intensified therapy sessions, steering my focus towards grounding myself in the natural world. The nurturing power of nature and the peace found in time with God have become anchors in my quest for balance.

A deliberate shift in lifestyle has unfolded — the right medications, essential vitamins and minerals, hydration through water and herbal teas, and a commitment to indulge in moments of joy and relaxation. Stepping away from the perpetual cycle of work and chores, I’ve embraced the importance of simply being, of finding moments of respite. Being alone… I know everyone wants to be with me but sometimes I need to be by myself.

In the challenges at work-Whether through the success of other endeavors or a realization on the part of my superiors, I remain optimistic. Yet, I’ve come to understand that my ultimate savior lies within myself! This journey is about reclaiming control over my life and recognizing the power within to foster healing and renewal.

Navigating Life’s Challenges with Gratitude

In the dizziness of my roles as a mom, wife, and everything in between, I find myself overworked and often overlooked. Health challenges have added to the strain, leaving me tired but still ever-loved. Despite the hardships, my family is my anchor, and their love sustains me.

While the road to recovery is ongoing, I’m surrounded by good people who make the journey bearable. Even amid the difficulties, I remain thankful for the shining stars in my life, choosing to focus on their brilliance rather than the few who cast shadows.

Blessed with resilience and the support of loved ones, I push on, determined to get things back on track. The challenges may be many, but my gratitude for the positives fuels the journey forward. I am thankful.

SK-