"No other success can compensate for failure in the home."
-David O. McKay
I'm a stay at home mom and I couldn't be happier, but I didn't always want to be. I remember in high school telling my parents that I was going to travel the world, have an awesome career (as an inventor), and get married and have kids when I was done with all my big adventures. I got married when I was 21 and had Kenzie when I was 22. My life didn't turn out quite how my high school self wanted, but it turned out exactly how I want it now.
We had Kenzie one day after our 1 year anniversary and I couldn't be happier. But I didn't always want kids right away. I remember when Nick and I were engaged telling him that I wanted to wait 2-3 years before having kids. Because I wanted to travel and go on adventures with Nick before real life hit us. My life didn't turn out quite how my engaged self wanted, but it turned out exactly how I want it now.
We found out we were pregnant with our second in December and I couldn't be happier. But I didn't always want a second one so soon. I remember Kenzie being very difficult for the first year of her life. I will admit that there were definite moments when I wanted a job just to get away from poopy diapers, spit-up, and the screaming, but I knew that no career or amount of money would outweigh the blessings of being a stay at home mom. Looking back I don't remember all the poopy diapers, spit-up, and screaming. I just remember the baby smiles, cooing, jabber, and exciting milestones. And I can't imagine how I would feel if I had missed any of those moments. After Kenzie, I wanted to wait at least 3 years to have another baby. My life didn't turn out quite how my new mom self wanted, but it turned out exactly how I want it now.
Once I had Kenzie there was no going back. No going back to work. I didn't want to. There was no way I was going to let somebody else raise my child. I understand that everyone is in different situations and it's not always possible for them to stay at home with their children, but for me there was no other option in my mind then to stay home with my precious baby. It's definitely the hardest job I've ever had, but it's the best decision I've ever made.
I can't wait for my little boy to be here! I know my job will get a lot harder with two, but I'm ready for this new adventure in my life. It's going to be hard waiting 4 more months to meet baby B!
I am so grateful to all the wonderful mothers in this world and their example to me.
Thank you.
This is so beautiful Andrea! I was in tears reading it as it really touched my heart. Kenzie (and baby B) are so blessed to have such a kind, loving, faithful and dedicated mommy! Thank you for being such a wonderful mom to my beautiful grandbabies!
ReplyDeleteWhat a cute picture of "you three." (I really like your boots!). My dream is to be a stay-at-home mom. My sister and sister-in-law are both staying home with their children, and my mom stayed home with my siblings and I. I was able to see the reward of being home and there for your kids at all times. As you said, i couldn't imagine having someone else raise my kids. Life is so amazing and precious, I want to take advantage of each moment, just as I hope you are able to. :)
ReplyDeleteLove it. You are an awesome mom. I am so glad that I know Deanna and get to continue to watch Nickolas grow up.
ReplyDeleteMy life hasn't turned out the way I had wanted it either, but it turned out the way that makes me happy. Good thing God does he wants instead of letting me do my own thing.
ReplyDeleteI love this, thanks for sharing :)
You are so cute! I feel the same way, it's hard but you don't remember the hard stuff as much as the good stuff. And the good stuff is really good. I'm so excited for you! Can't wait to see that cute boy!
ReplyDeleteAndrea you are my idol. I have always looked up to you and hope someday I can be as great as mother and wife as you are. :) I love you!
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