This is a picture of my life right now. The makeup (or lack thereof), hair, outfit (or lack thereof), or the desire to be even cognizant of it, has been exchanged for the constant adoration and involvement in Tatum’s life. The label I have donned for decades now of a hard-working professional has been replaced gloriously (for a season) by hard-working (and devoted) mommy. 
The positive changes I have seen in Tatum have far-outweighted any twinges of concern for my career which have been very difficult to relinquish. Why? My educator label has been my existence for over a decade, and I don’t apologize for this for it was my passion (and still is!)
But, for the past month, seeing Tatum grow as we grow together has been the most rewarding thing ever.
This particular week, WE got to experience rain together; and not just a few sprinkles…a STORM! As we walked outside, she spoke “wet” and “rain,” and now she truly gets it when we read about it. This experience would not have happened if I was at school because it was a Tuesday at 10am.
The relationship builds with pure time together. There is no secret to being a SAHM. I show up everyday with a positive attitude and a goal to create experiences for her which not only teach, entertain, but build a bond. Also, I can talk her through her breakdowns, her questions, her fears, falls, and foibles. She is also there for ME with my falls and foibles.
For example, on Wednesday, she helped me build a bookcase. As I screwed the screwdriver and hammered the hammer, she joined in with some of the bolts. It was endearing to see her grab a screw and try to help. She also took a rag to clean the floor as I did the same. At one point, the whole thing fell and partly on me! I yelled, “OW!” and she rushed over, “Mommy!” and hugged me. EMPATHY! at 20 months?
Yes, she goofs up and will lash out when she does not get what she wants, but my job is to teach her that it is OK to have emotions, but there are proper ways to express them. A learning process definitely. All I know is that when we come across something that is not something I would have her see or do, I can guide her through it with (hopefully) some wisdom.
In the meantime, she continues to be fascinated by any and every book
We now are becoming regulars at the local library. Gotta love FREE and QUIET! 🙂
