Doing What You Love

by Liz Arrington

“One of the greatest joys in life is doing what you love” In December, my oldest son and I attended the performance of one of our favorite local musical groups. As we settled into our seats, I watched as the players of the Cypress Symphonic Band settled into theirs. Adjusting stands, warming up their instruments, and chatting amongst themselves. Everyone looked relaxed, comfortable, excited for the concert. The musicians sounded their first note, lingering on that moment when all of the instruments came together in tune. A hush settled over the audience and the conductor took his place. The group launched into a jaunty version of a classic Christmas tune… and we were off on a musical journey that simultaneously lifted your spirit and soothed your soul. To my surprise, a friend of mine was up on the stage that night playing in the band. Another mom I’ve known for years, our circles have crossed in multiple ways. We’ve been in book clubs, had moms nights out, and attended playdates with our children. I knew she was passionate about music, something we also both have in common, but I had no idea she even played an instrument! My heart was so happy, not just because I was seeing a friend that I hadn’t seen in a long time, but because she was doing something so entirely her own. She looked so natural up there, surrounded by other adults sharing their gift of music. I looked around and spotted her children sitting nearby in the audience with their dad. Their faces lit up with pride and wonder. One of the kids caught my eye and excitedly waved, pointing up to the stage. “That’s my MOM!”, she mouthed. So proud. The concert went on, and I was able to catch up with my friend after the final notes were played. I won’t type out our conversation, but I’m sure you can imagine it was animated and joyful and I must have said “I’m sooo happy for you!” over a dozen times. She shared with me that she’s playing in not one, but TWO different musical groups. She practices at night after her kids go to bed. She feels a little guilty about the extra time away from home for rehearsals and performance schedules, but her husband is awesome and supportive. I am truly, genuinely, so happy for her. For any mom who finds her way to her passion! For an overwhelming number of women, making decisions about how to navigate life after having children is monumental. Especially when children are very young, and their schedules and needs overtake the hobbies and interests of their parents. If you’re early in your parenting journey, remember your passions are important. It might be harder to fit them in, when late nights and unpredictable nap schedules leave you exhausted and foggy. It’s okay if it looks different than it used to, and it’s also okay if you have to hit the pause button. Soon, you will round the corner into a new stage of motherhood, one where your children are older and less dependent on you for literally everything. This is your sign to take action. Surprise your friends, surprise yourself! Pick up your instrument, paint brush, dance, write, read, do more of what makes you feel like YOU! Even if you only have time and energy to do it a little bit at a time, you are worth it. It takes planning, courage, and persistence to follow your dreams- but the joy of doing it is the greatest reward.

Liz Arrington combines her background as a professional children’s therapist with her love of music to provide early childhood music and movement classes to families of Cypress. Outdoor, Weekday, and Saturday classes available. See more at

www.songfulbeginnings.com