When my sweet friend asked if I would guest post for her about the topic of Sometimes Stressed, Always Blessed #MomLife, I had to laugh. It was the first day of spring break for my daughter and I. (Gotta love teacher life!) We were supposed to be traveling to visit a dear friend but I had strep and my daughter had a sinus infection. Rather than share our germs, I cancelled our much-needed trip and decided to stay-cation for spring break. I was definitely feeling Sometimes Stressed in that moment.
Four years ago, I was a single, 30-something teacher with a great life. I owned a home. I had lots of vacations. (Yay for summers off!) And, best of all, I had enough disposable income to do some fun things with those vacations. My life was mine. If I wanted to go out to dinner, I did. If I wanted to go to the movies, I called a friend and went. If I wanted to go halfway across the country to visit a friend, I picked a date and went. I was Sometimes Stressed with work but my life was good.
Except I was missing one thing. I really wanted to be living the #MomLife. With no marriage prospects in sight and a passion for the plight of orphans, I decided to adopt. Once I made thAT decision, I jumped right in. I started the process and my beautiful little girl came home a year later. Bam. #MomLife And not just #MomLife. Single #MomLife. Special Needs #MomLife. (I don't do anything halfway!)
So, now here I am, three years later. I have no disposable income. I plan doctor appointments for my school breaks. Going out to eat can happen if it's Kids Eat Free Night. Going to the movies? Unless it's animated, I haven't seen it. Getting a sitter; finding a friend; staying awake for a movie. It's just all too much work. And I wouldn't change it for the world.
This little girl with an extra chromosome has taught me more about love and patience and persistence and laughter than I would ever have learned on my own. I'm exhausted all of the time. I seem to be sick more often than not. I am currently watching an episode of Barbie's Dreamhouse. (Yes. It's a thing.) Going to the grocery store takes twice as long. But I am Always Blessed. I am still in awe that this beautiful creature lives in my home and calls me mom. How crazy is that?
Yes. I am Sometimes Stressed. Always Blessed. It's #MomLife. And it's AMAZING!
