The graduation lesson I needed too...

I can’t believe it.

We have a high school graduate. Our oldest, Caroline, graduated last weekend and I couldn’t be more proud of the woman she’s becoming.

And honestly? It wrecked me. And I wasn’t expecting it to. (I’m talking more about it on the podcast this week.)

One thing I didn’t share on the podcast had to do with her salutatorian speech. Yes, we have a very smart daughter and she DID NOT get her brains from either of her parents.

In her speech, she talked about a moment that broke her, when she crumbled under the pressure she’d been putting on herself to achieve too much. She realized her worth had been tied into her GPA, accomplishments, and achievements. That moment was a catalyst for her to stop putting her identity into what the world deems as “success” and instead, to focus on the type of impact she’s having on those around her. It helped her to heal and focus on what matters most. Honestly, it was a great reminder for me, as an adult. But it’s especially poignant for our kids because there’s so much pressure on them to achieve. Too often, their worth is tied into their GPA, awards, etc. But that’s not what true success is!

If you’re interested in watching her 5-minute speech or sharing with your kids, HERE is the Youtube link. (it’s at 1:17:00 into the video) I had to wipe the tears away…

Btw, aren’t you glad that May (aka #Maycember) is almost over? Between the graduations, proms, awards banquets, spirit weeks, etc… it’s just TOO MUCH.

If it makes you feel any better, a friend of mine texted me last week saying that Landon (my youngest) had won some random school award. My response: “There’s an awards banquet tonight?” True story. I had no idea. And you know what? Everyone survived. Life happens and we can only do so much, especially as working parents.

Speaking of #Maycember, I’m feeling spicy because of it and I’m not holding back. Beginning next week on the podcast, I’m launching a June series called “MomFessions”. I’ll be joined all month long by my friend, boy mom, and CARRY Media colleague, Kristen. We’re sharing how we really feel about some of parenting’s hottest topics: Maycember, why summer isn’t a break for parents, why youth sports are out of control, plus our real thoughts about raising boys vs raising girls.

- Paula xo

We’re on family vacation this week, recovering from the end of school. And I’m loving these travel companions. If you’re flying, you need this sleep sling. Don’t laugh–it works! Travel bottles that leak? Not THESE. Plus, if you’re trying to maximize how much stuff you can fit in your luggage (without having to sit on it to zip it up!), I SWEAR BY THESE vacuum seal bags.

For all the mamas out there, The CARRY ALL weekly newsletter is now on Substack. By working moms, for working moms! This is a place to build community with other moms who get it: SUBSCRIBE HERE!

A favorite dip at summer parties, try this Black Eye Pea Dip. It’s quick, easy and delish!

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