Walking the Walk

Today is International Women's Day and Huff Post editor, Arianna Huffington asks this question - "Who inspires you?" These three words gave me a lot to think about as I started my day and I feel compelled to answer.

I am most inspired by people who lead by example. Let me explain.

I've never been a fan of the old saying - "Do as I say, not as I do."  Everyone watches us - especially our children.  They listen to what we say, but they pay even closer attention to what we do. For example, my daughter has almost broken me of my bad habit of using my cell phone while driving.  I admit that I still occasionally take a glance at my Blackberry when it blinks at me or take a random call because I forget that I'm not supposed to.  But, I mostly keep it in my purse where it belongs.   

I do this because I know that not only is it the right thing to do - but because she is watching me.  And in 6 short years, I'll be handing her a set of car keys. Will she do as I say and not as I do? Or perhaps I'm better off if my actions speak louder than my words.

By the way, I am much more in favor of that saying or when people say - "Don't just talk the talk, walk the walk."

So, to answer the question - Who inspires me? - my answer would be everyone in my life who leads by example.  Luckily, the list is too long to start naming names - but you know who you are.
  
But, by far, my children inspire me to lead by example so that they will be motivated to make the right choices in their own lives. And that, my friends, is the biggest inspiration of all.

Fountain of Youth?

After working nearly 9 hours at the synagogue today, it was about time to call it a day - but I had a few hours left at an event.  So, to pass the time - I began to speak to a congregant who I didn't know very well. Here is the best part of our conversation:

"Is this your first job out of school?" - says the congregant.


"Who me???" I said very surprised after I looked around to see who she was talking to.

She thought I was insulted, but I told her I was extremely flattered and went on with the rest of my long day with a smile on my face.

Damn - 40 IS FABULOUS!!!

My TLC Dream

How nice would it be if I walked out of my room in my work clothes and Stacy London is right there to say "Shut the front door!"

What a confidence boost that would be to start my day. :)

And THEN, how nice it would be if I happened to run into that TV chef at the grocery store who wants to come to my house and cook dinner for my family. I think I'd keep him.

And THEN, how nice would it be to go home and find Nate Berkus at my doorstep with his crew to redecorate my bedroom. (I know - I'm switching channels here). I think I'd keep him too.

And THEN, I could walk outside to see Peter Walsh (switching channels again) in his sexy British accent instructing me how to clear out the clutter from the office. Anything you say Peter...

And THEN, I wake up, reality sets in and I start my day.