Not Without My Daughter

I own a business, speak often, teach online.  I have flexibility, call my own shots, and have many titles in the world.  But for me, the greatest benefit I reap are related to my most important title of "mom."  I work from home and am available for my three daughters when they need a ride, help with homework, and honestly, just to supervise their teenage years.  They also get to see me working hard on a business that I love and turning my dream into a reality.  I like that they see my work ethic, dedication, and endless hours.  They are witnessing first hand what hard work really looks like and to follow a dream.  

Which is why it is no surprise that when Vinny Verderosa and Rob Bell of Green Birdie Productions asked me to be a guest on his radio show In the Green Room, I not only jumped at the chance but immediately asked the question "can my daughter's join me?"  

Now, I'm very independent.  I can walk into a room alone and do not always need a buddy.  But, when the opportunity arises for my kids to join me outside of my home office and see me working on my business, yes, I jump at that chance.  Since "Take Your Daughter to Work Day" is every day around here, I want them to see the daily grind, and also join me when fun opportunities arise.

My daughter Stephanie decided to join me on the ride up the studio.  We sat next to each other for the  hour long interview talking about my business, the building of this blog, and being a single mom. This was my first radio appearance and I was so excited to be asked.  But honestly, it was the  little girl sitting next to me, whose feet didn't even touch the floor, who truly made my day.  My daughter chose to spend time with me and support the business and life I have built.  She sat with great confidence and her usual "hey, if my mom is in the room there is always space for me."  And her attitude is spot on to the way that I feel in my heart.

Yes, I am sure it was exciting for her to miss an afternoon of school.  And I am sure she got a kick out of being on the radio, getting the chance to say hi to her dad and enjoyed laughing with co-host Dwayne Dunlevy.  But I hope on some level she realized how special it was for me that she joined me.  I envision many great appearances in my future and have many big plans.  I will not give too much away but will warn Matt Lauer, GMA, and Oprah that when I come to visit please make sure you have three extra chairs.  For as much as I envision spending time on a national stage, my real dream is to always have at least one of my daughters with me.