Don't Get Used to It.

Ever since I became a parent, I hear people tell me the same thing, over and over. "Don't get used to it". Babies, and indeed, lives, go through lots of stages. Sometimes they go very fast indeed.

Not too long ago I was feeling overwhelmed by my responsibilities, juggling family, fire, fun and work was tough, and it felt like something had to give. I thought it would be fire fighting, and was planning to take a leave and concentrate on other things. Turns out, that didn't need to happen. We got more comfortable with our new routines. Iris started sleeping through the night (until last week, anyways - good thing I didn't get used to it…). Life smoothed out a bit.

There was still stress, and distraction, but it felt more manageable. The support I got from the Department was also great. Not only was everyone very understanding about my changed responsibilities, everybody also wanted to help - and to hold the baby, of course.

This all goes into one of the things which I think is critical to a volunteer organization looking to retain members. Roll with the punches. Things change, so be flexible and supportive, and if you do, you'll probably be successful. So remember, "Don't get used to it".