Working girl

Recently I was asked to carry a blog on the new LaFollette Press website. Since I write for the paper on a weekly basis, you would think I would be overflowing with ideas to share. However, the opposite is true.

Natasha Colbaugh

I have been racking my mind thinking of topics, from government, to pets, maybe even nature. But honestly, these things do not emotionally move me. Really the only thing I am seriously involved with, other than covering the news, is my family.

I am certainly covering the news more then I am with my family. So maybe it would be a good idea to share my experiences, those few short hours of the weekday when I am with my husband Scott and son Lucas.

Now, I think it should be noted that I am the only girl in the house. My husband is as manly as they come-loving to fish and hunt. And my son is following closely as he rams trucks into the wall and throws balls all over the house. Even our dog is a male. I don’t know if it’s a natural occurrence, but being the only female means that I am supposed to provide the nurturing for all these “tough” guys. Some days even the dog is whining for my affection.

I am not a girly girl in the least. I have done my fair share of climbing trees and getting dirty. But I have to admit my idea of relaxing and pampering is much different from the guys in my household. While I enjoy a bath, a book and a glass of wine, my husband and son require the couch, chips and television.

The very idea of my husband and son on the couch with messy food makes me anxious about cleaning up the living room after they’ve gone. But despite my responsibilities to clean up the messes, at the end of the day I have to make time for myself.

In an economy where finances seem to be coming up short, I find my emotional well being to be coming up short also. So, for at least an hour during the day I will try to relax. Maybe join my husband on the couch, or find a quiet spot to read a book (have to buy a book). I will tell you how it goes, but in the meantime I challenge anyone reading this blog to do the same. In a busy life, where stresses are abundant, lets make a point to sit and stare at the wall, or whatever your preferences are.