I never pictured myself as a stay at home mom

 I never pictured myself as a stay at home mom. It was never in my plans, and honestly, it wasn’t even something I thought about. I always imagined myself working, staying busy, and building a life outside of motherhood.

But life had other plans for me.

It threw me a curve ball I never expected, and at first, I didn’t know how to handle it. Slowing down felt foreign to me. Being home all day felt strange. And I questioned if I was even cut out for it.

But now, looking back, I’m so glad life forced me to take a step back and be here. Because what I gained in return was time with my babies. Time I will never get back.

I’ve been there for the little moments that might have been missed. The giggles in the middle of the day. The first steps. The cuddles after nap time. The meltdowns I was able to soothe. The random “I love yous.”

I used to think I was giving something up by staying home. Now I see that I was actually gaining something I can never replace.

I’ve learned that sometimes the plans we never make end up being the biggest blessings.