Decade of Gratitude Post #10: Our Precious Burdens

Part of the dedication to my first book reads:

For Grace and Callie, who drive me crazy and keep me sane, all at the same time.

My sassy, ten-year-old-today, daughters think that is pretty funny! Soon after Grace and Callie were born, our priest visited and referred to them as our “precious burdens.” Both Clay and I thought the term was perfect.

Yes, we waited so long for them … years of infertility, a pregnancy that was no walk in the park, and a birth… well, you know that story.  They are precious. The best word in the world to me is “Mama” (Clay convinced them to say it like little French girls).  However, when they say it over and over and over and over…. well, it can be a burden.

That’s the gift and challenge of parenthood.

In many ways the girls saved my life.

Without them, and the desire to be with them and Clay, I’m not sure I would have fought so hard to survive and recover.

I am so grateful for the gift of being their mom for the past ten years, even on the days when they drive me crazy. I am grateful to my husband for being such a great father and partner in parenting.

Happy Birthday Grace and Callie!

Eliz Greene survived a massive heart attack while seven-months pregnant with twins, struggled to lose the 80 pounds gained during her pregnancy, and searched for a way to hold on to the perspective and passion she found in her near-death experience. Drawing on her background as an adaptive movement specialist, Eliz developed simple strategies and tips to help other busy women be more active, eat better and manage your stress.

As the Director of the Embrace Your Heart Wellness Initiative, Eliz travels the country energizing and inspiring audiences in keynotes and workshops on women’s heart health. She writes one of the top 50 health and wellness blogs. Find more at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com.