The rewards come from our children's successes. Success- in learning the world doesn't owe them anything, planting seeds of our own to grow; to be self sufficient, participate as adults, no whining/crying when things go wrong but determined to problem solve, to be responsible adults to their piers and family: is shown in the ability to listen, give back and love. The reward is raising children who don't "need" us but love us and share our life because they want to.

I will never forget a camping trip in Catalina. My children were up late, had walked down to the beach together, just them. I was in my tent, extremely tired and getting cranky from their loud laughter and conversation, it was past 1 in the morning and everyone was trying to sleep. I asked them to lower their voices, many times before I loud whisper yelled, "You guys have got to quiet down and Bridget isn't even trying!!", laughter got louder. a memory lasts. after they leave home we miss it.

10 percent for a trip to Ireland/Scotland, visit familial places, pay off debts with the balance. The funds are a blessing and I am grateful for the opportunity to have fun with this and to show my children age doesn't matter, that being a parent will make a difference, we just have to be willing to be humbled and happy for adventures we/our children take, no matter how big/small, business or pleasure. Thank you for this rare opportunity to celebrate life, because my legacy is my children.