Vienna

Today started out a little rough. It was just one of those days when you are in a funk, and there is nothing anybody can do about it. I honestly didn't know what was going on. Then I took a nap with my sweet 4- month- old and life was good again. I was tired and didn't realize it. After nap time, I looked at some pictures from home-Vienna. I was so excited to see familiar places. Then it just so happened that one of my best friends from Vienna was on facebook the same time I was. She called me, and we talked for about 45 minutes. She is a friend I have had since my childhood and someone I definitely consider a sister. We talked and talked about our kids. I haven't met hers, and she hasn't met mine, but it's like we have. I always get homesick after phone calls like the one I just had. But you know what? Instead of getting depressed this time around, I am going to be thankful to have tasted a bit of my Austrian side today, to have talked German, to have laughed with one of the best laughers I know, and to have seen a city that I consider home.

Question

Here is a question I have been pondering for a while, and now I am asking all you Mamas out there for your opinion. Where do you find the balance between serving your family whole-heartedly and not losing yourself in the progress? Let me clarify. I am realizing that I find some of the greatest joy in serving my family. I love to play with Max and see his obsession with trains go to new heights every day. I love the dimples in Will's face (and butt) and seeing him go completely stiff in anticipation and excitement. I love cooking meals and the smell of homemade bread wafting through our house. I love being Joey's wife and living life with him on my side. In many ways, I found a new me. In other ways, there are parts of me that are not being fully expressed. I love my Austrian side. I love to read. I am attempting to improve my writing, but not getting very far. I love to teach ESL. I love to exercise, although I can't really remember the last time I was all gross and sweaty due to exercise and not South Carolina humidity. I absolutely love traveling and being outdoors. I love good conversations over an equally good cup of hot tea. Not a lot of those things are happening right now. Is this just a phase of life? What do you think?

Sick

Sorry it's been a while. I've tried posting twice now, and it didn't work. Quick update: I'm sick, Will's sick and Max still has a ton of energy. Please be patient. I have some really cute pics to show you soon...hopefully.