It Takes a Book and a Village to Raise a Woman

I am compelled to share the magical feeling I get when I think of the women in my life, and how my need to be around phenomenal girlfriends informs what I do and who I am. This is particularly true today, Mother's Day. This is the day I wake up to fresh squeeze orange juice, fruit and scrambled eggs, and the unforgettable homemade cards and gifts from my three kids. All five of us(my husband too) cram into our made-for-two bed and everything seems to be "blissful familia" just until the point when the kids start fighting about who gets to lay next to me or who bumped into whom. This is also the day when I get the gift of time.

I never ask for stuff for Mother's Day. Really, I don't. Trust me, it's not because I'm not materialistic, vain or for lack of ideas of expensive pretty things I would want. It's just that by May I need to recharge and to really find that space where stillness lies; that space that eludes me most of my days. I love the gift of time to relax, to hush my mind, but also to think about what womanhood means to me and how my "doing" matches( or not )my ideas of what it means to be a mom.

As I was sitting in the Studio today, I noticed the intense pinkness of my azaleas and realized how they did not bloom. They ka-bloomed, going from no flowers to full blossoms. I also thought about my women's book discussion group, how much fun we have in this Studio and how much I learn from our candid, passionate conversations and discussions. Like the azaleas, it surprised me to see how something so simple (books, friends, food, tea) can feel so great. The laughter and energy still infuses the room two days later. Although I love books and interesting conversations, I think my biggest reason for starting a book club was because I love to be around that energizing force that one can only get from sisterhood.

Throughout my life there have always been different women of all ages whom in big and small ways have shaped me, nurtured me, guided me, loved and influenced me in amazing ways. Undoubtedly, I am a better friend, mother, daughter, wife, person because of the women in my "village", my life. It takes a village to raise a women. That's for sure. The book club is another way I stay connected and learn from the women in my life. I'm thankful for it and I'm sure my family also appreciates a happier mommy. Thank you to all the women in "my village" for everything. Make sure you take the time to thank a woman in "your village".