Pivot

Then pivot again.


And maybe again.


Some days, or weeks, even months call for lots of pivots.


My daughter Ally and I were planning a weekend in the mountains at our family cabin to celebrate my one month post-surgery milestone.


As I pushed through the pain and effort of my daily prescribed PT stretches and lifts, I fantasized about the wonderful smells we would enjoy, that delightful combination of pine and sage, and the sounds! Sparkling river splashes mixed with the rustle of quaking aspens. I was so excited.


But then, first one and then another complication… pivot: we would go for two days and one night instead of three days and two nights… pivot: no, we would go for one night… pivot…


We just couldn’t make it work. We could have given up, but Ally helped us keep our focus on what was most important, spending time together outside in nature and celebrating progress.


So pivot we did. We packed a picnic and headed off for a few hours in the mountains, driving through the glorious fall leaves, exploring a new found path to a secluded picnic spot, just a short distance from the road (perfect for a grandma on crutches). It wasn’t what we planned at first, but it was perfect, an amazing, private world of splendor as the sun lit up the golden aspen leaves.


Whatever challenges we face, we bring joy and light into our lives when we remember to celebrate the little moments, every little win, every day conquered. Then throw in the special energy boost that comes from anticipation and the power of pivoting in the face of change or setbacks, now that’s a recipe for living life to its fullest, together.


Here’s to more resilient wins at home and school,

Anne



PS Want to help your kids have less stress and more success at home and school? CLICK HERE to get a copy of our book, The Resiliency Toolkit: A Busy Parent’s Guide to Raising Happy, Confident, Successful Children.