Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Oh, those thoughts in my head!

15 years ago I became a mom.  It was one of those moments where I really had to pinch myself to make sure I wasn't dreaming.  As a girl you dream of that moment and I remember looking at my little bundle feeling so overwhelmed but yet so overjoyed all at the same time.  Will I be a good mom?  Will I know what to do?  I mean I was 23 years old, married for a almost 2 years, still in college and working part-time. 

23?  yikes!  college?  yikes!!  working!  yikes! 

I remember at the time I felt so old....now, I realize how young I really was.  Was I ready for this?  Why did God choose me to be this sweet little boy's mommy?  So many thoughts ran through my head.....

Someone help me!  He's my responsibility!

It was also about this time 15 years ago that I made one of the hardest decisions ever...well, not really THE hardest, but close.  As I looked down at my new baby boy, who by the way stole my heart from the minute we met, I knew that he was going to be my most important job EVER.  So, I decided not to go back to college, quit my job and stay home with him.  I knew that God had given me this answer because I had cried out to him on many occasions for help.  I didn't know what to do but I did realize that this was the path for our family and I was humbled by God's trust in me. 

I was going to Texas State at the time...well, WAY back then it was Southwest Texas State. Good 'ole SWT! I loved going to college, really, I did.  I was going for my Elementary Education degree.  I had so many dreams.  I had even collected apple things for my classroom.  Girls, do that you know.  Anyway, it was quite funny.  I found the box of apple collectables as we were moving and got a good chuckle out of it.  Man, were they outdated.

Sure, there are times when I wonder what kind of teacher I would be.  I had taken so many education classes and was looking forward to the possibilities of changing kids lives.  

So, in 2001, I decided to drive my little self to the University of Houston at Clear Lake.  I talked to an advisor, got the catalog and started the application process.  I got my transcripts ordered and sent over.  I was ready for orientation.  My counselor was very supportive of me and was a great help in getting me back on track.  I only lacked a few semesters.  I was looking forward to trying this college thing...yet again. 

Then.....

Yep, you guessed it.  I found out I was pregnant with my sweet little girl.

Isn't life funny?  God knew exactly what I needed.  He knew that I needed to stay home with my babies and he has given me all I need to do just that.  In between all my drama....my sweet hubby was able to get his degrees....even graduate with a Masters!  So, who needs a degree!  ha!

 All this to say, I have loved every minute of being a mom.  I have never regretted any decision on being a stay at home mommy.  I have loved watching everything they do and getting to see the new things they learn everyday.  Sure, there are crazy days but they are my days and I love them. 

As we celebrated Reid's birthday last week and I dropped both of them off at school yesterday, I realized what a lucky mom I am.  Degree or not.  I am still their mom....and they love me.  That's all I need.


Me and Reid....Isn't he handsome!  We are so proud of the young man he is becoming.


First day of school.  We went to celebrate with some yummy ice cream!

My sweet baby girl ready to conquer the world!


My love getting ready to take high school by storm!


Happy 15th birthday Reid!

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:9


5 comments:

Kim said...

You may not have a degree to be a teacher, but you are one of the finest teachers I know!!! You've taught Reid and MAcy the importance of loving God first and foremost. You've taught babies at MDO and you even taught my babies in BIble class. You have impacted the lives of children in the best way possible! This post made me sniff and sniff!!!! I love you !!

Heather's House said...

Oh, thank you friend! I appreciate those words so much! I love you, too! :)

jody said...

I, too, believe you are a great teacher. (and believe me I know...haha) But even more important I believe you are a great listener. You did your best to hear God's voice and then follow his leading. It was hard and certainly other voices chimed in that you were crazy. You also had a husband who supported you, loved you, and worked hard so you be a SAHM. What a blessing you two are...we love you bunches!

Holly said...

These are such wonderful thoughts Heather! You are--and have been--doing the most important job rasing and teaching your children--plus others at MDO and Bible class--and that's a blessing in too many ways to count.

BUT...you could still go back to finish your degree if you've got that bug--you never know what God might have in store for you. :)

Heather's House said...

Thanks JoJo and Holly!

Love you!