I’ve been thinking a lot about the future.
Hubby and I have been discussing what needs to happen with our family financially, especially because we have baby #3 on the way.
When I quit my job as a teacher six years ago, I did so with the understanding that one day I would go back to teaching, but at the earliest only when all of our children were in school.
But lately I’ve been reconsidering that. It’s getting a bit more difficult to live off of one salary, as many of you know.
So I’ve been praying about returning to work, even part time, to help support the family.
This is not something I desire to do right now– the desire of my heart is to continue being a stay-at-home mom, especially while my children are small.
So with discernment in mind, I’ve been praying and seeking wisdom.
And God has been speaking.
The other day I was reading a book about raising boys, and the chapter on mothers and sons spoke to me loud and clear– it was all about the importance of being a stay-at-home mom if at all possible.
Confirmation? I didn’t think so, but it certainly made me want to consider every last option before returning to work.
And then, the other night, God spoke to me through my oldest son.
My husband and sons and I were driving home from my parents’ house where we’d enjoyed a wonderful dinner for my birthday. The moon was very, very bright, and my sons were enthralled.
The conversation quickly turned to all things outer space, with my three year-old declaring that he wants to be an astronaut when he grows up.
I chimed in with the following: “You know, Mommy has always loved space. I wanted to be an astronaut when I was a little girl.”
My six year-old then spoke with unknown wisdom. “But Mama, you’re a mommy and you’re what God wants you to be.”
My heart was moved. With no idea what I’d been praying about, my son gave me the confirmation I’ve been looking for through a conversation that began about the moon.
I’ll do everything I can to remain at home with them. I’ll work from home, if possible, but I’m not going to give up on being at home just yet.
I am a stay-at-home mom because God called me to it out of a career that I loved. Who knew I’d love being a full-time mom even more.
With that calling comes faith– the faith that God will provide.
Share with me: How has God spoken to you lately? What verses have brought you hope?
Not bored with me yet?? I’m guest posting over on Lindsay Harrel’s blog today. It’s a fun post about marriage and I hope you’ll check it out! 🙂
Hale and Hearty Words 
Love when He gives us that confirmation! I’ve been experiencing that a lot lately!
I especially loved this title b/c I’ve been thinking about the moon a lot lately. Just how space and creation testifies to him. That the moon is not a light itself, but reflects the sun in the darkness. If that’s not what we’re called to do as Christ-followers, I’m not sure what is!
Funny you should mention that, because I explained that very thing to the boys in the car that night– that as the moon reflects the sun’s light, so we should reflect God’s son! Love those spontaneous little lessons that mean so very, very much!
My oldest son would NOT go to bed, for about 8 months, until we went outside and said goodnight tot the moon. Every. Single. Night.
Jenny, I’ve had many confirmations about being a SAHM, because I’m further along than you are, but now the biggest one is that my kids completely take it for granted until I’m not home. I LOVE it when I hear,,”Where’s Mom?” and I answer. Then they yell back, “Just checking”. And that’s the one who’s 6’2.
God has blessed me with two feet that don’t work very well and a back that is permanently damaged. Working outside the home is not possible.But that means I get to be home when they walk through the door and do that “ahhhhh” thing.
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Fun thing..check out @Cmdr_Hadfield on Twitter. He’s a Canadian astronaut on the International Space Station and he tweets pictures about every hour and tells what and where they are. SUPER cool for kids. And he tries to answer schoolkids and teachers’ questions. The pictures from the edge of space are INSANE.
I’ll check out that Twitter link– thanks!
Since my kids are small, they don’t really know any alternatives to me being at home with them, but I know as they age, they’ll know we’ve got something good– and RARE. My mom stayed home with us and I appreciate it so much, especially now!
Seeing your children grow from the perspective you’ve been given, at home with them, is a gift both grand and fragile.
The fragility comes from the temptation to leave it behind, to make more money. Even if you realize that it was a mistake, or an opportunity comes that allows you to return, that unique relationship can never be recaptured. Once you’ve gone back to work…your children will move on.
I hope that you and your husband find a way to allow you to to remain at home, to live in the fulfillment the Almighty has seen fit to bestow.
I so agree–I know exactly what I’d be missing if I returned to work right now. Continuing to rely on God, and so thankful that I have a husband who is willing to do anything to make sure I can stay home!!
Jennifer,
I admire you for thinking and praying all of this through. And for listening to God as you asked the question — and realizing that He can (and often does) speak through our children.
It’s an incredible thing when you see God working through your kids! 🙂 Continuing to pray– I don’t believe God called me to leave a career I love for one I love even more just for me to have to give up early. And I am SO grateful for a husband who wants me at home just as badly as I want to be here!
I’d love to read you post on Lindsay’s site…but all I see is plaid! Is there a trick to getting in?
Hmmm…someone else let me know that it’s not working, either. We’ve notified Lindsay, so hopefully she can fix it! 🙂
So precious. Sweet H. Love you guys and will be praying as well.
Jenny, just a thought to share. My niece was an English major and was an editor. When she had her first child her employer didn’t want to lose her and she continued her job at home via computer. She has changed employers since she moved back to Georgia from California and continues to the same. Just an idea.
I so know your heart on this one. I’ll be praying too, that He’ll work out all those details. But I’m glad you got the confirmation you needed to be at peace where you love to be! 🙂
Yay for confirmations!! I’m so happy for you. It’s interesting how God gives such different desires to mothers.
Isn’t it? I’ve been thinking about a post on that actually. We used to live in a society where stay at home with the kids was a given. Now, I’m the only SAHM in my Sunday school class.
Jennifer, you will NEVER regret time spent with your children! He doesn’t call everyone to stay home but you know in your own heart when He is! I have learned that you CAN have it all….just NOT all at the same time! There are seasons in life and your children are not going to be small for long. Time with them is worth any sacrifice you have to make, and when you look back, the sacrifice will be a big part of the blessing!
Thank you, Mrs. Barbara! I think you are so right. It’s worth every single financial sacrifice we’ll ever make. And as I stated above, I’m blessed that Brian wants me at home as much as I want to be here!
I love the moon! Last night it was so warm outside, I had to simply stand and admire God for His amazing creations. The Lord used Gideon’s story to confirm something to me that I’d been stressing over. I can honestly say, I’m at peace now. I love your heart, Jenny!