It hasn't always been that way. Starting 6 years ago things began to get difficult for Chris and I and a downhill spin of turmoil. We had just learned we were expecting our first child (which was exciting news), Colton in October of 2004. Very soon after in January 2005, Chris' father had a severe car accident that now still requires constant care. During this time and the next several years we struggled financially and our family expanded to 6. We had a period with Chris out of work. We made some really bad choices. One choice we have NEVER regretting was me quitting work and becoming a full time mom!!!
Chris and I worked hard, sacrificed, and did without!!!! Over the past two years we have worked extremely hard to fix our mistakes and live within our means. We cut up credit cards. Saved and paid cash for things we needed. We have consigned, craigslisted, received hand me downs, borrowed and gone without. But you know what?? I am so much more happier than I have ever been!!!! I know I am doing right by my family. We are all healthy and happy. That is all that matters regardless of what we have or don't have and where it comes from!!! We have come to a place that material things are just not that important. Don't get me wrong, we like nice things and respect what we have, but I am not going to break my checking account to get it!! I am far more concerned with the character in my children that I am building. Can they love? Can they receive and give it? Can they forgive? Can they give grace? Can they enjoy time with just us hanging out? These are the things I/we invest in.
Secondly, I like having babies and chillin at home. I DO NOT envy the busy families!!! I see NOTHING wrong with the little league seen. But I dread it and sometimes wonder if I can avoid it. I LOVE sports, but boy it sure seems like families are strapped down to the schedule. Then we have 4 kids. HA!!! Can you imagine?!?! At this point I value family time far more. My child hasn't asked to be involved, so I am not going to throw him in every sport for the sake of it. If he ask, then we'll consider it. But he hasn't. So I cherish all these sweet mornings on the deck together. Eating popsicles, playing in sand and getting wet.
Yes, I am HAPPY!! Good season!! Ready for lazy days of summer!!!
1 comments:
Paula, I love this. You should read the book "Weird: Becuase Normal Isn't Working" by Craig Groeschel. He's a pastor in OKC. The book talks about just this, staying agains society and being "Weird". Going against the grain. Keeping family first, restricting the schedules, putting what MATTERS first in our lives. God, and our families. Obviously being "normal" in this life isn't working, the busy schedules, the little league....as we watch families crumble all around us.....
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