Two Graduations, A Book, And The Freshman 15

It might seem like I’ve been quiet around here, but I’ve actually been as busy as an ant at a picnic.

This is what I’ve been up to …

I got a master’s degree! Yippie! And I wore what felt like an academic superhero outfit – complete with cape, cap and tassel.

It was a thrill to walk across the stage when my name was called, and slightly surreal since the last time I was that happy crossing the finish line was in 8th grade and I was just days away from getting my braces off, and the hope of growing breasts was in the air.

How do you top that?

Well, dashing off the stage for a quick family photo, then running off to watch my son graduate from law school! How many moms can say they graduated the same day as their child? A-may-zing day!

Our double graduation day was a day to remember and one I will always cherish. I couldn’t be more proud of my son. (Even though he towers over me he’ll always be my baby.)

While I’m not surprised at his incredible endeavor, I am slightly amazed that I actually finished my program, because there were days, many days, I was all, “OMG, WTF have I gotten myself into?”

But I’m done. I’m a little tired. And, like everyone else, I’m asking myself: “Now what?”

But before I get into the “now what” part, let me just tell you that the “Freshman 15” is real and it isn’t just for freshman. This summer I’ll be trying to work off some of the pounds that gravitated to my body the second I hit campus. I don’t want to be greedy, but I’m hoping the acne will clear up, too.

Okay, the “Now what?” part: Being a full-time student I’m used to being busy. Like insanely busy. And if I said I didn’t miss the camaraderie, excitement and intensity of school, I’d be lying. If the writing Gods are on my side, I’ll be doing lots more freelance writing. So, if by chance, any editors are reading this, why, yes, I would love to be one of your regular columnists.

In fact, here are a few pieces that I wrote when I wasn’t doing homework (I know, that sounds crazy to me too). Feel free to check them out if you’re interested in the trials and tribulations of parenting a child just like you and how kids playing team sports can benefit parents, too.

Also, here are some of the latest Carpool Goddess posts that unless you’re on Facebook you might not have seen, where I share my love of routine, how I’m learning to embrace change, my ongoing Fitbit obsession, or how I’m trying to bring sexy back.

 

Something else I’m super proud of: I’m a 2017 BlogHer Voice of the Year Honoree. Usually I only win at things like bingo, so this is exciting. It only took five years of submitting work, but who’s counting!

The funny thing is that I almost didn’t submit an essay this year figuring after four years I should just take the hint by now. But I sent it in at the last possible minute. I’m so glad I did.

Lesson learned? Never give up. (Unless, of course, you’re on a diet and someone brings you donuts.) So, if you’d like to read a funny, yet informative, piece on colonoscopies then looky here.

Anyhoo, more exciting news …

I am incredibly proud to have an essay published in the fifth installment in New York Times best selling I Just Want To Pee Alone series: But Did You Die? My story is “What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger.”

It’s got everything: humor, swear words, a parachute and an epiphany. That’s all I’m gonna say, but you won’t be disappointed. (Here is a review of the book in Psychology Today, where my essay is mentioned. Yippie!) And there are 36 more amazing writers with essays to tickle your funny bone. So, if you like to laugh, hop on over to Amazon (B&N, iTunes) and pick up a copy. Better yet, spread the love and buy them for your friends, too. What are friends for, right?

Until next time, hope you’re having a great summer!

P.S. Follow me on Instagram to see photos I don’t usually share anywhere else.