Girl Power

After spending the day yesterday at our annual Women in Business Conference & hearing some very inspirational women speak, a few things dawned on me..1) I love that I surround myself with encouraging and supportive women 2) I too, will be responsible for raising an inspirational woman!

It really hit home that I have a HUGE role in helping our little girl have great self-esteem, when sometimes in this world, that can be a tough thing. My friend Stacey Crew who is an author, organizer, blogger and all-around super mom had a blog post yesterday that tied right in with my thoughts. There is so much negativity for young girls to grow up with and honestly, I feel it comes from the lack of decent and REAL role models. As a mom, I will have to practice what I preach--this girl needs to see me contribute to society, help others and devote time to my family and her interests. Is that too much to ask of any mom?! I don't think so. Same can be said for male role models in girls' lives. I have a wonderful dad who has 3 daughters. He has always given all he had to us and set a good example of what a male figure should be/act like.

There are many, many women who will gladly take the time for you if you just ask! Our keynote speaker at the conference was Ambassador Linda Tarr-Whelan and although her entire speech was simply amazing, she said one thing that I'll remember to instill in my daughter; 'When a door opens, go through it.' That sounds simple enough, but we as women, sometimes take the comfort path rather than the more difficult or risky path. I guess, as a whole, it's our nature. She also said, 'What's the worst that can happen if you do go through that door? You may fail & then you will learn something for the next opportunity.' To a lot of people, including myself, that does sound scary. But, if our daughters grow up to just take the back seat all the time then when will women make any progress in the world or the business community? I have never felt or been shown personally that women are not as talented as men. I attribute that to my mom and other women, like my co-workers and best friends, that I am around all the time. I know others are not as lucky & don't have this support system.

Matt and I were discussing last night how this little girl will be raised and the things we want to introduce her to. I don't want her to only know about playing with dolls inside the house- I want to go outside and make mud-cakes and go on adventurous walks. That is one thing that I loved about Matt from the very start, he is always up for a new adventure & if it's anything outside, he is totally up for it! I look forward to seeing dad and daughter goofing around together:)

Yesterday also reminded me that we as women need to continue to support each other. We can ALL do something- whether you feel like you have something to give or not, you DO! Just put yourself out there and if nothing else, it will make you feel better about yourself for even trying!