Unlike the years I was raising kids when my weekends revolved around laundry, groceries, and children’s activities, now the end of the week is filled with excitement and possibilities. At times cultural, at times festive, always exciting, my empty nester weekends bring me amazing things to do. Last Saturday was an action-packed day that energized me and opened doors.
First, I went to Sovereign Health in Culver City to give a NAMI’s In Our Own Voice presentation to a small group of mental health consumers. There I talked about what it is like living with a mental disorder and the coping skills I have developed to deal with symptoms and side effects. It’s hard to say if the message hit target for all in attendance, but I read one review saying our speech gave her hope. Yeahh.
Second, I drove to Long Beach to the 5th Annual Latina Women Conference hosted by California Families in Focus and coordinated by Angel Macias in honor of her late wife Detective Kimberly Maddox. The conference benefited women in shelters and aimed at discussing taboo issues in the Latina community such as Domestic Abuse, Mothers as abusers, among others.
I am still energized by these new opportunities to bring my message of hope and advocacy.
Third, I headed to Glendale to make it to the Women Who Submit’s Annual Submission Blitz, one of the group many events working towards equity in publication. I rejoiced in the energy of the room, surrounded by women I admire and respect. I made only one submission, but it felt like I accomplished something big.
Finally, I drove down to Sta. Monica to meet my husband and in-laws for a beautiful gathering of brothers who haven’t seen each other in a long time. We had a lovely dinner, chatted, laughed, and took plenty of pictures. Then we walked to the Pier and enjoyed being silly with the kids.
Sunday was resting day, and today, I have a boost of energy to set new goals for this week.
