5 Things I Learned This Week

This week has had major highs and lows, and I’ve learned so much from them.  I feel like I need to share because maybe some of you can relate.

Doing kind things for others really matters

Last week, I had my 20 week ultrasound to find out if my baby was a boy/girl. They were also checking to make sure if the baby was healthy, and I’m sure all moms know how scary it is to go through the ultrasound waiting to hear that everything is ok. Everything turned out fine, thank goodness, but what if it hadn’t? I feel for any woman who has had to deal with that scenario.

That night, our neighbors gave the most beautiful roses I’d ever seen (see picture) to all of the neighbors. I’m sure the rest of the neighbors thought it was very nice. But for me, because the day was such a special day in my life, it made the day that much more special and I’ll always remember them for that.

Especially because what if the news wasn’t good? You never know when someone needs a little kindness in their life.

2-year-olds can show compassion

Anyone who knows me well knows I cry at any sappy movie (or commercial). I was watching “The Duchess” and started crying at the part where she has to give up her baby. Not the sweet cry with a few tears, but the full out sobbing, ugly cry. I’m pregnant, so I think that scene affected me even more than normal. Anyway, my 2-year-old looked at me and immediately said “Hugs!” and ran up to me and gave me a big hug. He kept saying “Hugs.” and smiling at me until I stopped.

I hope I can help him keep that compassion because so many people in this world need it.

Life is fragile

Two icons died today: Michael Jackson and Farrah Fawcett. Seems so strange that they died. Farrah was sick, so it makes more sense. But MJ had a heart attack at 50 yrs old. It happened so quickly. And because he was so iconic, it seems like he would live forever:  like Princess Diana, JFK, and Marilyn Monroe.

When famous people die, it’s a reminder that we all can die and it’s time to live life to the fullest.

Good friends are a huge comfort

I’ve been a bit down this week. Not sure if it’s hormones, stress, lack of sleep, or all of the above. But the conversation and support of good friends has been a huge comfort for me and I’m slowly pulling out of the funk.

Thank you to all of the wonderful women I know, online and offline. I hope I’m half as good a friend as you are to me.

I still have so many fears to conquer in order to reach my dreams

In order to be successful as a writer you have to be able to deal with criticism (self-criticism included!) and be willing to put yourself and your ideas in front of others to judge.

That is still so very hard for me.

So, what have you learned this week? Join in at the What I Learned This Week carnival at Musings of a Housewife.  Great idea!