Today my life not traditional in many ways and that is my tradition. Getting to this point has been surprising and satisfying and at times tumultuous and chaotic. Changing one thing is not an option and if it were I would not take it. I have a beautiful son, a loving husband, great friends, a supportive family, my dream house, and a job I love. I am the luckiest girl in the world!
As a child I wanted for nothing. I dare say I was spoiled. My brother is almost 16 years my senior and therefore I was basically raised alone. Growing up I was willful and that has carried into adulthood although softened. Taking the easy road was never something that appealed to me growing up.
My mother stayed home until long after I began school and even when she did work she was there to greet me as I got off the bus each day. She gave up a lot of herself for me as most mothers do and I truly appreciate her sacrifices. Now that I have my own child I understand her more than I ever have.
My father was the provider and most of my clearest memories of him were in my teen years when I began playing sports. He could relate to that and that brought us closer. I learned from my father to grit your teeth and get it done. This mixed with his ambition has taken me far.
Attending a private all girls school prepared me for life in ways I never realized at the time. A true analytical approach to learning free from the pressures of competing with boys was a godsend for me. The opportunities I had were plentiful and expectations for me were high.
I went through a rough patch after high school. I did not know who I was or what I wanted. The realization was staggering. Given my priviledged upbringing the path to discovery was one of selfishness and missteps. It took me until my early twenties to become a productive member of society who is grateful and really appreciates all that I have in this life.
College came later after those tough years and life lessons. Driven to succeed like I never was in my youth. Working nearly full time and going to school full time even in the summer to graduate in four years. I used that willful nature of mine to my advantage this time.
Riding the wave of optimism and success, my first real job was exactly what I needed. I reinvented myself and made great friends and some not so great friends. Working was a reward until the economy collapsed and all the certainty I felt unravelled. Who knew the best things were yet to come?
The next years until now were a whirlwind. The dream of home ownership came true complete with a gut renovation to make it truly ours. I enjoyed every second of the madness of it all. Even on the days I could not fathom another decision especially about ceiling fans. A new job was around the corner that was everything I wanted and more. Then it hit me like the freight train that runs through our town. I wanted to be a mother.
I uttered this desire briefly to very few and then it was real. I relished every moment of pregnancy. Who knew I was this person? I didn't.
Now I have a son and all the tales of how difficult it would be have proven false. I feel love like I never thought possible. A miraculous evolution led me here. I am so pleased I embraced the journey.
My life is already enriched because he is in it. I look forward to walking with him on his journey through life. I will hold his hand as long as he will let me.
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