I slept in this morning without interruption. I got ready for the day without interruption. These are rare occurances since becoming a mother 19 years ago. I’m not sure who thought that Dec. would be a great time to have a conference. That person must not be a mother. Can you think of any time of the year more packed with programs, parties, projects than December? It’s the WORST time of the year for a mother of 4 to go M.I.A. and head off to CA for an 8 day therapy conference. Or is it? Maybe it WAS a mom who chose this date at this time of year! The relief I felt excitement and relief as I addressed the last Christmas card, packed my stuff (only my stuff & not several other bags), and headed with a colleague to the airport.

Now my dillemna is whether I will go to every possible workshop with 70000 other people and soak in all the knoweldge and inspiration from psychology gurus from across the globe or should I take time this week to relax, relish silence, nap, and be…alone? I’m sure I’ll find somewhere in the middle.

But at this moment, I am alone and I like it.

About Julie Hanks LCSW: Dynamic self & relationship expert Julie de Azevedo Hanks, LCSW loves to make a difference. Whether it's performing her songs, helping therapy clients, or giving advice in media interviews, Julie's down-to-earth professionalism and helpful advice inspires everyone to take good care of themselves and their relationships. Watch Julie on KSL TV's Studio 5, get counseling from her clinic Wasatch Family Therapy & read her national advice columns on Psych Central's Ask the Therapist, and Private Practice Toolbox. Connect on Facebook & Twitter...and watch for her new book releasing in 2013.