A little contemplation after 15 years of being an at-home-dad.

As I sit here and think about my almost 15 years of being home with my four children, I can’t help but reminisce over some of the experiences I have been through. I have experienced love, laughter, lice, laundry and loss. All of these experiences represent a certain aspect of my life. Without them, I would not be the person that I am today. I am writing this piece to let other at-home parents know that many others have been through or are going through what you are experiencing right now. You are not alone. Being at-home is not easy. It is extremely rewarding but it is also demanding and at times mind numbing. Knowing that your children will benefit from you being home is your focus, just don’t forget to take care of the one thing that needs the most focus, yourself. Your family will benefit when you take care of yourself first. The happier you are, the happier your family will be. It’s as simple as that. Lead by example. Your family will follow. If you are positive, your family will see positive. If you are negative, your family will see that as well. It took me a long time to realize this, but now that I see the true way to live, my life is better than it has ever been.  I am still going through a few transitions in my life but I know the way I live now will make the next chapter of my life more fulfilling and meaningful. Shift in life is going to happen, it’s inevitable. It’s how you deal with it that makes all the difference. Be grateful for what you have. Don’t lose sight of what you are doing. Be true to yourself. Things will work out.

Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have about being at-home with children. Chances are I have been through it or at least know someone else who has.

“It is knowing that within every situation-painful or peaceful, ugly or beautiful-there is always a gift waiting for you.”  – Shift Happens