Beaches and Blackberries

As I pack my bags for my annual Santa Barbara beach trip, I can't help but rejoice in my current work situation - part-time and flexible. For the last few summers, I have been working full-time, checking my Blackberry between dips in the ocean. This summer, while I always have my Blackberry with me, it is not an obsession anymore. I feel lucky to work with women who cherish their summertime as much as I do.

All winter long, I pine for the dog days of summer. Each year for the last decade I have taken the kids with me to join my best friend (and her kids) in Santa Barbara for a moms and kids week. No husbands allowed. It's not that we don't value their contribution but two moms working together are the absolute epitome of efficiency. We can make breakfast, slather sunscreen on six kids, pack the cars with endless beach toys/chairs/towels and get out the door in a fraction of the time it would take with our husbands' help.

Our husbands have learned to fend for themselves at home. They bond with their friends, take the dog for long walks after dinner and eat lots of pizza.

Our summer ritual has taught me a few things:
1. We only have a limited number of summers with our kids, I need to use them wisely.
2. If your boss calls you while you are sitting at the beach, speak loudly so he doesn't hear the roar of the ocean.
3. A bad day at the beach is infinitely better than a good day in the office.

I will savor this summer knowing that I have the best of both worlds; an interesting, flexible job and a chair waiting for me under a beach umbrella.