Quintessential Perfection

Today has been the quintessential "stay at home mom" day, or at least the kind of day I always pictured after I'd drop the kids off at the sitter and headed to a full day of meetings.  Because I've been absolutely horrible about blogging lately, you may have missed the memo that as of this school year I'm doing a job share, allowing me to work three days and then be home the other two.  Typically I'll work M-W, allowing me four whole days off with my little guy and to be there for my girls as they step off the bus.  I'll go back at some later date and fill you in on how this awesome opportunity came about (it was really just heaven sent).

So back to my quintessential channeling of Donna Reed.  Today my handsome little man and I started off the day by going for a walk after we got the girls on the bus.  It was GLORIOUS outside.  No humidity, a nice breeze, about 73 degrees!  I could have basked in the glory of it all day long, and I've tried to.  On the way home from our walk we stopped at the park across the street and little man enjoyed some time on the swings.  It was pure joy to see his expression.

We came home in time for his morning nap, and I was able to shower, check mail, and look over our budget (which is decidedly the saddest part of the day, but the lack of money is so worth the time I'm getting at home).  When Alex woke up we had lunch and played.  We really didn't even leave the living room.  I read him books.  He played while I attempted to fold laundry (he "helped"). He is the most loving little guy and he loves cuddles, kisses, and any attention and time I spend with him.  We pretty much did that until it was time for nap #2.  There is a lot I could have done and probably should have done, but I'm not going to live in the could have and should have world, I'm going to embrace what is.  And what is is awesome!  He and I laid down and took a nap.  When we woke up, I thought I'd bake some cookies to have for the girls when they get off the bus.  They're in the oven now!

Seriously, could a day be any better?  I know nothing exciting has occurred, and nothing the world would term important or of great success, but it feels really good to be home and taking care of my family and my home.  I have some friends who are climbing the ladder in their careers and I admire them and respect them.  Sometimes I start to think I'm going the wrong direction.  I am well respected in my career (at least I believe I am) and I probably could be climbing my career ladder too.  Instead, I just gave up my medical benefits and 1200$/month after taxes to play peek a boo and fold laundry.  Really, I sometimes have questioned my sanity.  But then I remember how right this feels.  I remember that it is my primary responsibility to nurture my family, and when I'm in that role I can feel of it's divinity.  There is great power in the humility of that role.  I know I've griped for years, many times on this very blog, about wanting to be home more, being exasperated with the women who do stay home and complain about it.  As I continue to learn and grow as a human being, I realize we are all just doing our best, whatever that might look like.  I am just so very grateful for this time and opportunity to be with my handsome Alex, to be more present with my girls this year as I have more time to devote to them, to be the best mom and wife that I can be.  I'm grateful for this mostly perfect day, and I'm grateful to my Heavenly Father who has heard my prayers these past years and who is showing me His tender mercies!  I think I'll have to channel my Donna Reed more often!!!