And Then There Was One

And instead of two there is now one, income that is. After MUCH prayer and discussion, Casey and I decided together what would vs best for our family would be for me to quit my job and stay home full-time with Caden. Even though things will be tight, it's nice that this is even a possibility that exists.

    When we first found out we were pregnant, my initial dream reaction was a strong desire to want to stay home with my child. However, as time went on I realized that this was not going to be an easy decision. I've worked where I've been for the past 7 years since I graduated from Texas A&M, which is something not many people can say at my age. God has truly blessed my life when he brought this company and job into my life. He allowed me to work for an  incredible company called Plains All American Pipeline, have a wonderful boss that taught me so much and became my friend along the way, and have a job that I didn't dread going to each day. I worked hard while I was there those 7 years, getting a couple small promotions along the way and thought do I really want to start over with building up vacation time or the fun of just looking for a job. 

   Then there is also the financial aspect. Kids are not free (shocker I know) and the bills do not stop once you have a baby (maybe if they did then I'd consider having 19 kids like the Duggars, jk) We needed to be able to pay our bills, save for the future, give back to God and help others, and have the occasional fun outing. Some people truly love what they do and working full-time actually helps to make them a better parent.  That's just not me.    I never had a desire to be a CEO or move up the corporate ladder.  While I enjoyed my job, did my best to do it well, and tried to serve God through it, for me it just gave me the means to do what I really loved.  
  As a parent now (still feels weird to call myself that), I feel this immense responsibility to make sure Caden gets the best care possible, make sure he is learning his Bible stories, and help mold him into Christian boy he will one day become.  With working full-time and the 2+ hr. commute, Casey and I both felt that we would not be doing the best we could do by me continuing to work at Plains. At the end of the day, I thought when I looked back at this time in my life, am I going to wish I would have spent more time with my son to teach him those Bible songs and stories or spent more time at work so I could make more money?  This scripture in Matthew came to my mind too, it says "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."  My treasure is/needs to be with my son and helping him to become a wonderful godly man who is able to stand strong against Satan's attacks not concerned with material/worldly possessions.  I can't take money with me to heaven, but I'd like to spend eternity with my son there one day.
   Maybe down the line I will find something either part-time when Caden gets older or be able to work from home,who knows. We are taking this leap of faith, and know that God will continue to provide and bless our family.  Let's see where this journey takes us!  I'm excited to be able to spend so much time with this sweet little face and watch him grow!

"You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you." Psalm 86:5