I ♥ Pinterest

Now that I recognize the "Control Freak" within, I've been looking for ways to channel this dominating part of my personality to enhance the positive effects and minimize the negative impact in my life.

First, I had to figure out the root of this trait (The "Why").  Why was the need to control so much more prominent in my life these past few years? Well, most mothers... working mothers... all women, period, can agree that the many "shoes" we wear in our daily lives can sometimes be almost impossible to juggle without a misstep.  

There is no such thing as a "to-do" list because most of us have more than just one or a list that has multiple "subcategories."  There's a list for the kids (sometimes one per child), one for the house, one for the others who rely on our "expertise," and then finally a list for ourselves (which often remains unchecked). 

With all this mental clutter, it can be a daunting tasks to manage all the things we have to do, need to do, and want to do.  All the plans we have to make, need to make, and want to make. And on top of that, some things I personally don't have the mind-space or mental capability to figure out how to get everything done in the most efficient time saving manner.

 

Then came Pinterest...

What is Pinterest?

Pinterest is a Virtual Pinboard.

Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes.

Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests.

For ideas to help with my need to be organized, neat, and put everything and everyone's stuff in our house, I have...

For my need to save money on things I can do myself but not "right brain" enough to think of, I have...

For my need to remind myself of the things I like, need, and/or want for my kids, I have...

For my need to make cooking less of a pain in my busy schedule, I have...

For my need to focus and enhance my sense of style and spark my creativity with limited time and  funds to always buy new and high-end, I have...

For my need to have a frame of reference for ideas for design and decor for our new home, I have...

Pinterest is my virtual holding tank for all the things I just can't keep in my brain, but want to have on hand if and when an opening comes up. 

Yeah, I know, this new Pinterest habit may be just another manifestation of my Control Freak gene, but at least it's essentially harmless... I hope?  Check out my personal pins and boards. You might just get hooked too :-) 

Latifah

Welcome to Our World

     For all our differences and life changes, one thing remains constant – the impenetrable bond as mothers, daughters, and sisters.  Through trials, tribulations, joys, and celebration, we have always sought to strengthen our relationship.  It is this determination that allows us to heal and recover from pain, heartache, disappointment, and failure.  It is this desire that amplifies every pleasure, joy, fulfillment, and success.  It is because of this bond we are even able to approach our issues – the good, the bad, and the ugly.

With a story as unique and special as the roles we play, we are three distinctly different individuals – flawed and fabulous in our own special way.

Who we are...

Lois (mother and friend) – According to me, I’m levelheaded and responsible.  Throughout my life, I’ve always chosen what’s better for all and not always just myself.  I have a natural instinct for learning and adapting. Being a mother has been my greatest challenge and joy.  Having daughters that are also my friends and “cheerleaders” is an added BONUS!!!

Let them tell it, I’m crazy and dramatic.  But they will also say, I am a constant source of support and validation.  I listen without judgment and advise without condemnation.  My voice, sometimes quiet, is their source of strength and bravery.

Latifah (oldest daughter, big sister, and friend) – According to me, I’m sensible, grounded, and focused (the "Brainiac" of the crew).  I’ve juggled work, school, kids, and family responsibilities so long, sometimes I don’t know how to “not do anything.”  I am a lover of life and a professional human being – perpetually “under construction.” 

Let them tell it, I’m bossy and a know-it-all.  But they will also say, I am the glue that pulls us together when we drift too far apart.  I am the driving force that pushes us forward and reminds us there is always room to grow.  My voice penetrates through all of our madness in an effort to restore sanity.

Ilyasin (youngest daughter, baby sister, and friend) – According to me, I’m fun, quirky and engaging. A bit indecisive, though I like to call it versatile, in my career aspirations. I can do so many things its sometimes hard to settle on just ONE thing. I often voice my opinion and I don’t usually back down from a fight. I fight hard, but I love even harder. 

Let them tell it, I’m flaky and a bit unstable.  But they will also say, I am always “the life of the party.” I am the creative vein and constant energy source throughout our relationships.  My voice oftentimes speaks for us all. 

Mothers... Daughters... Sisters... Friends... We continue to grow and evolve in our relationship as individuals and as a family.

Lois, Latifah, and Ilyasin