The Juggling ActWritten by Debra ThomlinsonBringing up a family is difficult enough in these times. Establishing values in your home becomes harder and harder as the world around us becomes more complicated. As woman we must give up some things in our lives to make sure that the daily demands of raising our family, work, marriage and leisure are all met. When I look back at when my son was first born and required constant care I at the time wished for more acceptance and approval from family and friends. Being seen as "just a stay at home mom" never was enough for me. I needed to strive for more, push myself to unknown limits and be seen as more than what I appear. Riding was my outlet for this. It brought my self confidence back again as well as my determination to do more with my life. If I could master riding, think on what else is possible! There is a power to women that is overlooked by society. We have the ability to manage our lives and succeed. As my mother in law recently told me. Never let anyone tell you that your not important or special. Use the gifts that you were given and you will succeed. Balancing our careers with riding is like standing on a teeter totter, you have to completely focus or you'll fall. There is a certain gratifying feeling that overcomes a woman when she realizes that she can ride or just go to the barn after a long hard day and that time is hers alone. Family commitments tend to be overwhelming and I have found that by simply saying "NO, I'm sorry I need this time for Me" the family unit still functions just fine. It's all a matter of setting priorities and having other family members help out. Moms needs shouldn't always come second. Believe in yourself , the results will amaze you. In loving memory of Betty Thomlinson
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