Having my 14 year-old niece join her sister has definitely changed the dynamics in the Alexander household. For one thing, I’ve had this unexplainable desire to do stuff I don’t typically do. 
Like take an entire Saturday and do something other than writing. (My CP’s know me well enough to realize what a big deal this is, and have been uber-patient with me. Right? Right?)
Recently I packed the girls up at near the butt-crack of dawn and headed out of town for the day. Our destination: someplace new, someplace to make a memory.
My day job requires I do a certain amount of traveling and gives me a chance to stop by some cool places along the way. 
Before I started eating a Paleo diet, The Sugar Shack was one of my fave spots – the best apple fritters around! And the coconut bars — YUMMY! No surprise that I chose that route. 🙂
Over donuts and coffee, I got to know my girls a little bit better. Like what makes them tick — which is, admittedly kind of like searching for the Holy Grail, in my opinion! 
We made a memory. Which wasn’t a bad thing, right? Right? Cuz the writing will be there but I get only so much time to influence Niece and Niece 2, particularly before they start the school year. I gotta believe that’s important, too!
So today I’m back at it, whipping the WIP into shape. But I don’t regret the time with my family. I’m discovering that they gotta have some of my attention.
Which makes me wonder. Writing peeps, how do you balance work, family, and writing?
-Melia
It’s nice you took the time to do something out of your habits with them, nice aut!
I have come to the conclusion that finding a balance between work, family and writing is an illusion. All any of us can do is find pockets of time and enjoy the moment. Opportunities to make memories are precious and should be guilt free, my friend. Spending time with your Niece’s and taking a day to have fun recharges your writing batteries, but also strengthens the family bond. Your day sounds wonderful!
Thank you, Miss Dele! It was definitely the right thing to do!
I’m so glad you stopped by. Have a fabulous week!
Hugs,
Melia
Hello, Kylie!
Time is one of those funny commodities that can’t be banked or multiplied. Once we spend it, it’s gone. . . which makes those pockets of time extremely precious!
Thanks so much for your time, dear friend. I’m so glad you stopped by!
Hugs,
Melia