Life Changes

A new year filled with lots of changes.

My son left the beginning of the month to start his career in the Army. He is currently going through basic training. I look forward to the weeks ahead. To supporting him through this time in his life and to be there for him when he graduates in the spring.

Times have changed. 30 years ago when my hubby (then boyfriend) went away we had no contact with him until he graduated. Now there are websites, Facebook pages, cell phones and photos that we can look through. Life is good! All of these changes make this time for us parents easier. So please keep him in your prayers and thoughts.

I don't make New Years resolutions but I do take time to reflect on the year before and evalutate what I should do differently this year. What improvements I should make, in myself and in my life.

The past few years have been a struggle for me. Emotionally and physically. I will turn 49 this year. As 50 looms near I realize that I have not been true to myself - in many areas. I have let my wants and needs be pushed to the way side as I have had to focus so much time and energy into being a wife and mother. In a world where so many women have been taught to put their careers ahead of their family I guess I have lead an "archaic" ideal of family life, where mom stays home, does the cooking and chores and is always available. I'm happy that I have chosen this path, no regrets. But it hasn't been an easy choice during times when women no longer cook or have chosen traditional roles in a marriage. 

Now I'm not saying I'm unique, I know there are many women who make the choice to leave careers and be SAHM. It's just, at times, makes me feel different. That's all.

So now....as I'm reaching a different point in my life...with my first born leaving home. My baby only having 2 years left in high school and I'm almost 50 that I have to stop and think about changes.

And yes, going through that "change" in a woman's life I have to try to take the time to find what I want to do the next 10-20-30 years of my life.

So. I plan on drawing more, watercoloring, painting, yes crocheting and knitting.

And I want to color again. I do want to get back into card making. But in a different way. 

For me, not for anyone else. But for what I want, what will make me happy.

I want to be creative. 

I want to be an artist, again.

Thank you for sticking with me.

Thank you for letting me share my passions with you.

Thank you for the journey.

Comments

[Patti J.]

To thine own self, be true! You go girl!

[Marilyn Jensen]

Once you do turn the 50 th corner, life gets a bit easier...not as much angst as you go through the changes of motherhood with children growing up and leaving home...at least, I felt better after that 50 th birthday....49, on the other hand was full of angst! And with the "change" added to the equation....well, it's not the icing on the cake, thats for sure! Hang in there, you are headed into the right direction! "Who is looking after you while you are looking after everyone else?"

[Beth Norman]

Good luck with all you new adventures.

[Ramsey]

Yes, staying at home was often much harder than working but I love it! I am having blast in my 50s!!! The change was not that bad for me so you never know! Toss in some exercise and your are golden!!!

[Joan V]

I also dreaded the big 50, but it made me stop and appreciate life. I chose to be a SAHM and I feel so blessed to be a Mother, Wife, Friend and just me!!! I finally take time to exercise. I love to walk and now I am running. Whoa, I haven't run since I was in high school LOL. I am scrapbooking more, learning new things every day. I love to cook, clean, organize and be the SAHM. One big thing I started doing, was to unclutter my life and living space. Makes me feel free. Have a great day. Keep us posted on your son.

[Trena in Naperville]

Good for you Asela!!
God Bless you and wishing you the best on your journey!

Take care and STAY POSITIVE!

[Mireille M]

You are a great artist and i am happy that you are going to take the time you need for you. I love your work, i recognize myself in your toughts and your stye, you are an inspiration. It makes me feel good to read your blog. I just bought stamps from you at Ginak Design, i am very excited and enthousiast about the projects i will do with them (sorry english is not my first langage) continue your coloring... it's a joy for the eyes! :D Mireille from Montreal

[conniecrafter]

Good for you, I was a SAHM too, my daughter has been away at college and is in her last year, was married this past summer, and I am still not working outside the home, well not for pay anyway, I do alot at church volunteering, that is what has kept me going since my daughter left, along with all my other crafting. I know it would be an honor for me to be asked to be on a design team, but I hear so much from people that are on them that seem a bit overwhelmed and like you said I keep busy enough just making cards for my family and friends, that's the whole reason for it. Look forward to seeing your creations in the coming year!

[Tilda]

I too chose that "archaic" lifestyle and it really worked for our family...I don't apologize for it ever or wish it would have been different. I am PROUD that I was afforded the chance to watch my children grow first hand....to be there when they needed me for things small or large. I am greatful to my husband for working so hard so I could live this type of lifestyle. Honestly my view is this...I like being different from the career goal gals....good for them if it works for them, not being negative about that at all....I like being in that small percentage of being a SAHM....its been an awesome ride! Best of luck to you, and being different looks good on us...don't you think? Hugs and smiles!