Thanks, Emily, for this reminder! I was moderating a parent group this week, and emphasized the need to 'pause' during the holiday season. I wanted to share one of my favorite reflections for this time of year. If I Decorate If I decorate my house with a tree, twinkling lights, and shiny ornaments, but do not show love, I am just another decorator; If I slave away in the kitchen, baking dozens of cookies, elaborate meals, and arranging a beautiful table, but do not show love, I’m just another cook; If I work in the soup kitchen, carol in the nursing home, and give to charity, but do not show love, it profits me nothing; If I trim the tree with snowflakes and bows, attend a myriad of parties, and sing in the choir, but I do not show love, I have missed the point; Love stops the cooking to hug the child; Love sets aside the decorating to kiss the partner; Love doesn’t yell at the kids to get out of the way, but is thankful that they are there to be in the way; Love is kind, though stressed and tired; Love doesn’t give to only those who can give in return, but rejoices in giving to those who can’t; Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, and endures all things; Love never fails.

I love this, Emily! It really resonated with me.

Hello, everyone! I’m Sheila and I currently live in San Francisco. I own my own education consulting, and coaching business. I have over 40 years of experience in education from K through 12. I spend a lot of time coaching parents, which I love - and also provide life coaching. I’m glad to find a group of like-minded individuals and look forward to contributing my expertise and learning from all of you as well.

@Xavion Lay Thank you! I appreciate your kind words. Let me know if there’s anything you ever need another perspective on—seven wonderful children!