A Year Ago

Don't worry I am not writing a profound post today, I was just thinking back to where I was this time last year. Sam was about 9 months old and I had this itching desire to stay at home. The economy was (and is) crappy and it was something that we never really thought would happen or consider after our first child. Jarrett started a new job and the list of why nots was LONG. But the one reason of WHY was not...I just felt that was what I was supposed to do it. I loved being a counselor. I liked helping kids feel better when they left my office. It really was a perfect fit for me. But after Sam was born, I realized I spent so much time worrying about other peoples children (who's parents rarely said thanks to me after helping) and not enough about my own. When I shared my hopes with some people, I got supportive "DO IT" responses, you will never regret it. Some gave me other responses less supportive. But it would be my family making sacrafices, not them. So, I took a LEAP of FAITH and trusted that God would provide for us and help me to have peace about my decision. So...how am I feeling about it? I had to make changes in my life. No 3 x's a week trips to Starbucks, budgeting for groceries, and saying no to some invites to do things, being creative about things to do and no more impulse buying at Target! Is it worth it? Most days I am so thankful that I get to do this and that my husband is supportive of my choice- thanks Jarrett! Yes, I get frustrated sometimes and it is an endless list of things to do all the time and I wash clothes like no ones business, but I am helping my family and serving them and I feel good about that. Pedicure each month? Yes, I have withdrawls but it is worth it. I miss seeing work friends and gossip and being productive with projects, but not as much as I would miss the things I get to do now. You can be a good mom working and you can be a good mom not working. All have its plus and minuses! We may never take trips to the Carribean or drive brand new cars. We may not have thousands in our savings but we are happy- and isn't that a great thing!