Reflection

                            

Seasonal change parallels life. 




           Leaves  fall.. a quiet time sets in.  Tree trunks are still, bare, exposed, vulnerable.. 

                                                                                          via

Rain will bring life to our streams and forests...  cleansing, washing away the past, helping us focus on the present and teaching us to live in the moment.

Time to reflect.  
be still.. 
 and think


What defines a good life?
I recall a time when I felt a tug at my heart.
 
  


  My children were young and I had a career. 

  One day I awoke to an odd feeling.  It was as if a little tremor was coming through and I didn't feel right. 

I felt that in trying to do everything, I was doing nothing well.  I began to consider resigning. I knew if I chose that path, I would not be able to duplicate my position easily and having to start all over again would be a likely scenario.  

  "I'll be a middle aged woman (in my forties.. funny how young that seems now!) and I'll be reinventing myself, sitting in a classroom with kids.." I cried to my husband. 

We all have regrets in our lives. The one thing you will never regret is the time you spend with your children ~ loved ones.

I made the decision that was right for me.

 Yes.. I did have to start all over again.  Do I have any regrets?

Absolutely not, and if I were to do it again, I wouldn't change a thing!

                                                                        xx  leslie
               
                       



  




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71 comments:

  1. Fabulous post! You certainly chose the right option xx

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  2. Beautifully written my friend. Time with family and loved ones is the best gift we can give ourselves and them. xo C. (HHL)

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  3. Hi Leslie I would not change a thing either...
    This post was powerful and encouraging. Thank you for taking the time gracing your beauty at my site with encouragement to my art. I too had a life change in career with this economy and still find no regrets in having to reinvent myself in different directions.

    Thank you for posting your heartfelt feelings, inspiring.
    Blessings
    Xx
    Dore

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    1. Economic issues can influence are choices with regards to career. You just have to do a little soul searching to determine which path works best for you :)

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  4. Leslie,

    Thank you for stopping by and for your comments.

    I could not agree with you more! I am positive you made the right decision! And I am sure that wonderful opportunities came to you when you closed that door.

    Have a great week, Elizabeth

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    1. Yes! One door closes and another opens doesn't it?

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  5. I faced the same dilemma and also chose to stay at home with my kids which I have never regretted. Beautiful pictures! x Sharon

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  6. Oh, this is beautiful Leslie, makes me smile and a little sad too. How quickly time passes and these babies of ours grow up. You have an amazing family and they are very much a reflection of your priorities. xo

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  7. Hi Leslie,

    You have shared a wonderful post and such lovely family photos.
    I was a stay at home mum when our children were little and was the best start for them .
    The time does pass quickly and each day spent with family is precious.

    Happy week
    Hugs
    Carolyn

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  8. Leslie dearest,

    I saw the title of your new post come up yesterday, but when I clicked on it, it wasn't here yet. HERE IT IS, this morning.

    YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE THIS. The post I have been working on but that am going to post this morning, is on this very subject. I have been working on it off and on for a week.

    I resigned from my nine year job of teaching kids. I did it for many reasons, but the TRANSITION I am making is challenging. I believe that we are reinventing ourselves all the time, but it is just that SOMETIMES, that process is more difficult than other times. Oh, I just cannot believe how your message here coincides with mine...even the MOOD of your photos mirrors mine!

    I will be posting mine this morning. Do come by and sit for a while...

    YOU ARE GORGEOUS! Were you a cheerleader for a big football team?????

    Much love, Anita

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  9. Oh Leslie, such a beautiful post...yes, we all have some regrets in our lives but I agree the most precious time of all is the time you spend with your children and family and the creation of so many happy, wonderful memories that stay in your heart forever...I wouldn't change a thing.
    Catherine
    xx

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  10. Very beautiful... You're so right, the time you spend with those you love in invaluable

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  11. This is beautiful. I went to law school started practicing then couldn't handle the guilt of having 3 young kids at home without a mom around for all the fun things. I resented a nanny getting to make those memories with them. I quit, we took a cut in some of the perks we had gotten used to but it was really worth it. Now I work part time from home and wouldn't change a thing. I think my kids are who are they are because I was around. You never get that time back.

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    1. I empathize with your feelings regarding a nanny raising the kids. Sounds like you found the balance that you need! I too went back only part time.. so I was home when the kids were. I felt fortunate that I was able to create that situation. Good for you for doing what felt right! :)

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  12. What a lovely post (and photos) and one which I can certainly identify with. I do agree with you - those times at home with children are very special and fun too and although it means starting again or resuming a career, I believe it's worth it.
    http://missbbobochic.blogspot.co.uk/

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  13. Such a beautiful post, Leslie. Life is tooooo short....children grow up so fast.... Make time with loved ones no matter what.
    Cheers!
    L

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  14. That puddles gif is cool! I could watch it all day :)

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  15. what an awesome post...brought tears to my eyes as I was reading it and hearing that old song!

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    1. When I saw the video it reminded me of when I was in high school! It IS an old song and it brings tears to my eyes too :)

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  16. Good afternoon Leslie!

    Thank you for coming to visit me. It is stunning to see that we are on the same pattern of thinking this week! I finally resolved, I HOPE, my problem with storage space.I joined Google + that I believe will give us free storage space. Thanks to a great blogger pal, I think I am OK now! I was able to upload my header that was giving me trouble!

    OK, on to the next hurdle! Have a SPECTACULAR DAY! Anita

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  17. What a thought provoking post. What does define a good life....?

    Cindy

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    1. A "good life" is about perception rather than material things. It's about finding joy in daily living and understanding what is most important to you :)

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  18. Lovely Leslie. You are so right. I'm glad you were able to make the decision that felt right for you. I agree, that time spent with our children and loved ones is the only thing that matters....all else will fall in place.

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  19. This is such a beautiful post Leslie. Without having met you in person I know what an amazing woman and mother you are. It comes through in your posts. You children are so lucky to have you.

    Jayme @ Her Late Night Cravings

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  20. Gorgeous post, Leslie! Fall is a time for reflection, I definitely agree with that. And what a wonderful mother you are. You made the right choice and your children are so fortunate to have you.

    Have a wonderful start to the week! :) xoxo

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  21. It is a shame we can't do it all, but they grow up so fast. I wouldn't have changed my time with my kids, even though career wise it has been difficult to get back in the workforce.
    Beautiful post x

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    1. It is a shame we can't do it all and I agree, going back in to the work force is tough. Women are strong and resilient creatures and are able to adapt when necessary :)

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  22. Leslie,
    What a sweet post. Change is inevitable and living in the now, taking the time for loved ones is always a good idea. I choose a similar path and have always been thankful for the time I had with our sons. What a great song and such thought provoking images.
    Enjoy your week.
    Karen

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  23. I <3 this post!
    I have lived this life also...not a single regret.

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  24. Well put. It's all about priorities, isn't it? I also gave up a career to help my husband raise his three young children. It was hard at times, but I wouldn't change a thing looking back now.

    Lovely post...

    Adrienne

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  25. Lovely post Leslie! A good life is lived without regrets. Choosing to make your family your priority certainly sounds like it has paid off for your family and I'm sure your beautiful children would agree.

    Hope your week is off to a wonderful start!
    Rowena @ rolala loves

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  26. This was beautiful, your children are precious! They grow so fast, mine are just 1 1/2 and the other will be 9 next week, seems like yesterday! We decided that I'd stay home with them instead of work and I'm much more pleased that I did. My mom worked two jobs to raise my sisters and I on her own, so it was hard and we didn't see her as much as we'd like to. People always say I should have a job and be working to help with money, but I think my children and their time is more important. I'd love working in an Art museum, but my children are more important and that'll come when it does! I get masterpieces made by my daughters to hang up just now ;) I think your children appreciate all you've done for them and love yo dearly for being the best Mother they needed :)) Lots of love to you :))) Xxx

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    1. Both of the kids are at such fun ages! I am so glad you get to be with them and have listened to your heart and set priorities that work for you. Hopefully you will never feel bad about this decision, despite what others may say. I understand that some women do not have a choice when it comes to working (to put food on the table) and for them, my heart aches. You will never regret the time you have spent with your children!

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  27. Beautiful Pictures!! My fave all time song. That is where I am now. Reinventing myself at 41. I gave up a career in TV Production to raise my kids. Although, my youngest is 6 I am now thinking about what do I want to be when I grow up? Love this post Leslie, it hits home. Have a beautiful day!

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    1. Change and transition is always a challenge, no matter what age. Being home with children and running a home is not an easy task and offers little (at the time you are doing it) daily kudos for work well done. I would say you ARE grown up :) and considering other options. Sounds like you've made the right choices Jennifer!

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  28. These these are amazing photos and we are always reinventing ourselves in life....my mom is doing the same as a later empty nester :)

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  29. Beautiful post, Leslie. Your words brought tears to my eyes. Time goes by so fast. Everyday I question my path, praying that I have chosen the right one. I'm so happy that you are happy and content with the choices you have made. It's a good life : )

    Danielle xo

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    1. Time does go by fast Danielle :) and we all question ourselves every now and then. Follow your heart and the rest will fall in to place :)

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  30. Leslie this is beautiful, and just what I needed to hear today:)Thx! I have three small kids and are at home for the time being, had a great career after university, but I can´t keep up with it all, especially when I really want to spend time with my children. I don´t buy into the quality time thing, children need consistency and quantity and also boring time at home with their parents. At least our children...It´s good to know you shouldn´t change anything and that you had the opportunity to spend time with your children, not all parents have that possibility.This is life. A beautiful life.
    Love Caroline

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  31. Thank you for the reality check!

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  32. Such a beautiful post. Looks like you made the right choice.
    And Landslide is one of my all time favorite songs.

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  33. Loved your thoughtful post, Leslie. I'm thankful I had the choice to quit my career when my son was born, I never regretted it for a minute. Your family is fortunate to have you!

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  34. Hi Leslie ~~~ I think you have so much inner wisdom Leslie. I totally agree with you about how one will never regret spending time with their children and loved ones. Love your posts always Leslie, You are a blessing.

    Michele
    Pearl 13.1

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  35. I'm sure that when my time comes I'll make a decision similar to yours. I've always felt that I would put things on hold or give things up once we start a family. Your honesty and the way you share your life is why I love your blog and keep coming back xoxox

    Win a handbag valued at $130: New Giveaway on the Blog!

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  36. Leslie! This post is marvelous, and our lives, yours and mine, have a certain parallel ... my profession has the advantage of being very versatile, my children are always my priority, and my profession was a contingent upon my true career to be a Mom ... I have no regrets either .. . my children are a privilege to me, and I resumed my profession (I'm an architect) ... lately, you know? It's always possible, it is never too late to take back a profession, but being there when your children are growing, that's irremplazable!
    My apologies for being a bit absent ... work, work, work ... ugh!

    A big hug!

    Inés
    SimplyClassyMe.blogspot.com

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  37. Oh I can so relate to this post. I gave up everything for my kids. Now I'm in my 40's trying to establish something for myself in fashion at an age where fashionable people no longer look at you. Well...I think I'm still doing ok most days. One day at a time, but it's a pity blogging doesn't make any money because that would validate what I do. But I do have my family and that's worth everything!
    Lots of hugs!
    xo
    Sharon

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  38. awesome video and photographs!

    Ps; Join my Glamour: Making it Modern book Giveaway [US ONLY] on Style Diaries



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  39. just lovely to read an emotional post like this.
    This is the song I chose long ago to play at my funeral, when ever that may be...don't mean to sound morbid but does anyone ever think of what song they would choose?
    Have a great week!
    Bec x

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  40. Thank you for this reminder today. Sometimes I need it. Is that you as a cheerleader or your daughter?

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  41. 40 does seem young...I know. I'm 41 and blessed that I can make something of my life now that my kids are getting bigger. I hope and pray that everything works out for you. God Bless you!

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  42. Leslie, great post! I did the same thing. I just wish I had gotten back in a little sooner, but I feel very blessed I had a choice to stay home or not. My family comes first...

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  43. Cliffhanger! I mean, I know what happens, but I don't KNOW what happens. I want to know more about this fabulous life you continued to create.

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  44. Your thoughts and sentiments resonate with me Leslie. Thank you for sharing the depth and honesty of your words. Each step we take out of the 'box' takes true courage. Lovely family ....lovely post.
    I appreciate you,
    Heather

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  46. So emotional writing...I do like the start of this post, with a Fleetwood Mac song....
    Best Regards
    Miss Margaret Cruzemark
    http://margaretcruzemark.blogspot.com/

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  47. Awesome post!! You have a way with words - it definitely puts things into perspective!

    xoxo

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  48. nice pictures! like them a lot!

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  49. I'm still panicking about this, I'm wondering what to do now and how to play out the rest of my life.

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  50. Very nice post Leslie - always very inspirational ;) Hope you have a nice day and week end coming up !!

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  51. this was a calming beautiful post. i'm glad you are happy!

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  53. I know I already commented here I hope you're ok! Have a wonderful weekend!
    xo
    Sharon

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  54. Loved this post! The images, music and I agree completely with what you said. I will never regret the time I spent with my kids. Already it's gone so fast.

    Happy weekend!
    xo
    Kim

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  55. Wonderful post Leslie, your kids are so lovely (and how did you get the rain to do that?). Yes it is so hard starting all over again. But As Kim said it's gone so fast.

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  56. Hi Leslie,

    What lovely photos of your family! You look like such a happy and close-knit bunch! Yes, I, too, find myself reminiscing a lot lately...maybe because I'm nearing half a century old myself and there's a lot to remember! Anyway, really enjoyed this post and love the animated rain effect-is there any sound to this? Would love to listen to the rain, on demand!

    Have a great weekend!

    Poppy

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  57. Dear Leslie,this is a beautiful and moving post.I agree with you,you'll never regret the time you spent with your loved ones.As far as I know you, you are an amazing woman with a lot of wisdom and sunshine to dispense to your readers.Autumn inevitably conjures up nostalgic memories from the past,but we must look ahead and keep shining.xo Coco

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  58. Beautiful post Leslie! Beautiful images, beautiful sentiments!

    Sharon
    xxxx

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  59. Beautiful post Leslie! Beautiful images, beautiful sentiments!

    Sharon
    xxxx

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  60. Very pretty and classy, love the look :)
    I follow you now!
    Follow me back on facebook ,twitter,and GFC
    love you dear :)

    Marcchanelette.blogspot.com
    Marcchanel'ette

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  61. What an amazing post! Thank you for sharing! xx

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  62. I applaud your
    decision, because
    you don't have
    any regrets and
    your kids grew up
    secure in the knowledge
    that they came first.
    Awesome.

    xo Suzanne

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