Staying the Course set for Me

I'm coming up on an anniversary of sorts in our home next week. It's one of those that I don't celebrate or remember every year, but this year it's fresh on my mind. 7 years ago on the 27th of June, I walked out of the "office" where I worked and traded my desk and computer job in for one that involved dirty diapers and laundry. I remember being terrified to let go of that pay check and trust that God wouldn't let us sink into the abyss of financial ruin. But I also remember there wasn't an option....I was miserable. I absolutely hated dropping my baby off everyday and driving away. I cried most of the way to work, and couldn't wait to walk in at night to see her. There really wasn't another way. I knew that I was called to be a mommy probably from the 1st moment I felt Libby kick me in the womb.

So here I am 7 years later. I would love to write that everyday is magical and fun, but it isn't. In fact most days really don't seem that "magical" at all. When I look back I have many great memories, and some really hard days that come to mind. I guess that is how it is with any job. You like some days and can't wait to "clock out" the others. My "clocking out" just doesn't usually come until bedtime.

When I started this job there was 1 little princess that took all my attention, and now there are 2. I've gone through Libby needing her naps at a certain point, to potty training, to preschool, and then kindergarten and therefore becoming not as dependent on me at all. And now I start all over with Alice. She is napping now in fact. We have to be at home every day by noon for her precious nap, or else I have one cranky princess. So here I go again. Knowing what comes next to some extent. I know that since she is 18 months old today, I better enjoy it. Those terrible 2's are just around the corner and then its the fight of wills for several months (or years). But I guess that's part of the job.

I can say that God did not let us sink into that financial abyss...but He keeps us at a place that we are very sure of who the "Provider" is. Sometimes I still wonder what job I would do if I had to work. I think that it might not be so bad to have adult conversations, goals, someone saying "Good job Stacy on that presentation" or whatever it might have been. I can't help but think that leaving this house everyday, and letting someone else change the diapers for a little while might be nice. And I sure wonder how much money would I be making if I had stayed working all those years. " Oh the places we would go" I say to myself:)

But I didn't stay working outside the home...God lead me down a path that He intended for me. Here I am 7 years later with 2 princesses, 1 house that needs to be cleaned, and supper to fix every night of the week. Sounds dreamy huh? Well it was my dream....and it still is. I just can't believe it's been 7 years!

" Help me God to stay the course and not be tempted by all the "what ifs" that this world throws at me. This really is the most rewarding career You could have ever given me...even when the reward can't be seen everyday."

These verses are for me today. Reminding me of what He has done, and promised me. Even on days that aren't so magical.

May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.

Psalm 20:4

Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails. Proverb 19:21

In his heart a man plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.

Proverb 16:9

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future..

Jeremiah 29:11