How Being a SAHM Changes You...

FOR THE BETTER.
I grew up knowing that I wanted to be a dedicated wife and mother. The kind that met my husband at the door after his day at work. The kind that invested 100% into my children. The kind that knew my kids friends, welcomed them, and even was a second mom to them. The kind that took pride in her accomplishments in the home. The kind that played the supporting (and very important) roles like budgeting, meal planning, cooking, and so forth.

I think this desire was second nature to me, because I saw it lived out on a daily basis. My mom realized the need for her to be at home with my brother and I, and for my dad. She quit her full-time job as a Pediatrician to stay home with us. I never EVER felt that my parents expected me to do exactly as she did. In fact it was never discussed. I believe I wanted the type of life I had for my future family and I saw exactly how important her job was.

Here I am today. I stay at home, and while the term "homemaker" is not exactly a popular word, I view it as a job title with as much power and influence as a CEO. I make the house a home. That is something that takes time, love, and sacrifice. I love my job. I don't just stay at home. I do so much more. I shape the mind of the future. I encourage and re-energize the workforce aka: my husband. It's a wonderful job and one that more women should be proud to do.

Being a SAHM or Homemaker changes you though. It teaches you lessons you didn't know you needed to learn and it takes humility and sacrifice to a new level. It's not easy to be home every day, and especially if your heart isn't in the right place. Sometimes if I am not careful, I could find myself feeling bitter. Feeling like I am too educated for this, that I'd like to be interacting with people of my same age in a work environment, that my husband has no idea what it is like to be at home all day, etc. Those thoughts destroy me and cause me to fail and fail miserably. I have learned that we are called to serve others. There is no greater task we can do, as a Christian. I serve my husband by making our home a refuge from work and stress. I serve him when he has a hot meal and clean sheets. I serve Nora when I spend hours reading and playing with her to mold her to the best young girl she can be. I serve her when I gladly change her diapers. I serve her when I wash and fold all her tiny shirts and pants.

It is truly my pleasure to serve. Oh, trust me, it isn't always easy, but it is always worth it in the end. Being a mother has taught me so much, and being a homemaker has taught me so much more. I am more content than ever. I am more appreciative for the ways God has blessed us as a family. I am learning what makes me happy and what I enjoy doing. I am developing new skills every day, believe it or not. (like photography! watch out folks!)

I want to encourage other women who stay home or want to stay home. It's the most important job you will ever do!