Sally Sanchez
Age: 55
Location: Emporia
Occupation: Secretary at Emporia High School for 29 years
Family members: Husband, Juan, 57; children, Leticia, 30; Carlos, 25
The biggest difference I see in how kids are being raised today compared to when I was raising mine is: Some are not accountable for their actions.
The thing I miss most about having my kids at home: The constant circus, practices, games, performances and dinner on the the run.
I’m most proud of my grown children for: Choosing higher education and then finding their own paths.
I carve out time for myself by: My healthy lifestyle. While I walk, it is a time to reflect.
The one thing I wish I had known about parenting before I became a parent: The challenge of raising teenagers.
The most important life lesson I wanted my children to learn before leaving home: To learn to cook and clean for themselves. Growing up they thought they were my personal house cleaning assistants. Little did they know I was teaching them to be self-sufficient. They thank me now and will pass along to their kids.
The thing about my younger self that I’d like to reclaim: The endless amount of energy.
When I have 30 minutes to myself: I e-mail my friends.
My best money-saving tip: Never pay full price.
One of my favorite family traditions is: Christmas morning with my family, eating traditonal Mexican food for breakfast and lunch, going to a movie and eating Chinese food for dinner.
One way I fit “fitness” into my life: I walk every morning before I go to work.
The biggest challenge I’ve faced as a parent is: Letting my children make their own decisions.
The best thing money can’t buy is: Love and happiness.
My best advice for parents raising their children today: Disciplining children is easier and more effective if parents work together.