I hold and have held a lot of titles in my life -- founder of Saltability, spa director, licensed massage therapist, resort spa therapist, esthetician, nail technician and more -- but being a mom is the one title that means more than all the rest. And today, as a working, single mom, an entrepreneur, and a business owner, "mom" is the role that most influences everything I do.
The decisions I make, the person I strive to be ... everything centers on my family. I want to create the best life – an intentional life – that I can for my son Cameron and daughter Brooke. On one level, that goal is related to the lifestyle we want to enjoy, but on a deeper level, living an intentional life is all about service to others. I want my kids to see, from my example, what it means to make a difference.
Living intentionally can be challenging. In the last year and a half, we have moved from Missouri to Florida, a place we love! But the change meant the kids had to transition from small town schools to big city classes. On top of that change, their dad and I made the very tough realization that our life paths were not meant to stay entwined. Together, we've cried and struggled and grown and will always be a great mom and a great dad to two terrific kids.
My time with my kids now is different, as we have all adjusted to split schedules between their dad's house and mine, but I see how I am a better mom for it. We may not be "intact" by the traditional definition of family, but I know that Cameron and Brooke now truly get the best of their dad and the best of me.
In the early days of Saltability, our house was literally filled with salt. The kids truly saw and were a part of what it meant to build a business. Now that Saltability has grown, we may not have the boxes ready for clients in the living room, but I still keep my kids involved in what I do. Most recently, that has meant us working together on various service projects, from Rotary International (see photo of us from Christmas, when we visited with residents at a local assisted living facility) to the Boca Walk to End Alzheimer's, and I am grateful to have them by my side and for them to see how service and giving really gives you a sense of meaning. I know “happiness" is the big buzz word right now, but sometimes I am just not always happy. But I do know that, even when I am not happy, I still feel grateful for a sense of purpose and meaning…
To all of you moms – Enjoy your special day. Go after the life you want, and live with intention! You deserve it.
Ann Brown
Founder & CEO
P.S. I am proud to be serving as co-chair for the 2018 Boca Walk to End Alzheimer's. Please consider giving to support the fight! Donate to our team's effort.
