Last week my kids had Winter break (in Marin it’s referred to as “ski week!”).
My daughter Nico went on a french class trip to Quebec…lucky? Yes! So I decided to take my boys to Chicago. I loved every minute of it, and so much of what I experienced gave me appreciation and reflections that I want to share.
Spending a week with just my two boys:
One on one, or one on two time with your kids is so special. The energy shifts, the connection deepens. I highly recommend it.
Quality time with three of my very best friends:
Always make an effort. When you find a friend, and it just clicks, dive right in and don’t let go. Best friends, especially as you get older, are not that easy to find. Make sure you get as much time as possible. Your chosen family helps you grow as much as the family that you’re given.
Playing with my kids
Never stop playing. And if you fall down, get right back up again!
Cousins are the best fun!
Nothing more needs to be said.
Stay young, but don’t forget your earned responsibilities:
I stayed up until 2AM with my 24 year old nephew and his girlfriend. We had fun! The next morning I got up and drove (excuse me, was chauffeured, by my sister Erin) 50 minutes away to teach a class and take a class… which was fun too!
*Proven Fact: I have more stamina than many 20 somethings. They were still in bed when I got home!
Family is where we come, a huge part of who we are, and can be a great reflection of who we can become:
Erin and her family live in Chicago. We had an amazing time staying at their house and spending quality family time. I live far away from my Mom and sisters and I forget sometimes how important it is for my soul to nurture the family connections. And it also helps that my brother in law, JD, spoils me rotten. Thank you JD!
Wherever I go and take or teach a Dailey Method class it has its own flavor but also always feels like home:
I visited four Dailey Method Studios while I was there. I’ve been to most of the Studios in Illinois multiple times but two of these I’d never been to and the other two have there’s new owners. I taught classes, I took classes, I got thank you gifts (tequila, a scarf and caramels- everything I needed to keep me warm in Chicago!) Thank you TDM owners everywhere for your dedication to alignment, engagement, and fantastic movement!
It really is the the simple things in life – family (given and chosen), friends and fun! Who needs to ski? Not me (this time)!
Love,
— Jill