How many times have I asked the Lord, "God, is this really what I'm supposed to be doing? I mean, don't you have something really important for me...?"  I never planned on being a mother. I was going to be a "career woman". You know... the full deal... whatever it was I was going to be, I was going to "look the part" by wearing suits; exuding "professionalism" all the way! (Pause for hyterical laughter... ) I will never forget the day the realization of my life hit me like a train as I stood in the check-out line at the grocery store...

I was brought back to a  time when I was around 17, all dressed up and "no place to go", and saw a bedraggled woman with her children... no make-up on and a pair of sweats and faded sweatshirt. "That will never be me..." I thought to myself.

The beeping of the cashier ringing up my groceries made reality slap me in the face...  there I stood, in all my glory... a camo hankie on my head, no make-up, faded sweatshirt (with paint for added measure) and knit baggie pajama pants (they could pass for regular pants, right?) with bleach stains from cleaning the toilet. I had become "that woman".

I fought that for a long time... and society certainly didn't help that struggle. Staying at home full-time with children isn't a way to "make your mark" in the world, I was told. How wrong that thinking was (and is). I was blessed when I finally came to the realization that I am making my mark in the world through my children's lives by staying home full-time with my children, and this IS what the Lord wants me to do. Raising my children in His ways... telling them of His provision and grace... showing my love for Him daily... My purpose in being a mother, is guiding my children toward their purpose in the Lord.

It's not always easy, and there are times I feel myself slipping back into "what's my purpose, REALLY Lord?" It's then he sends me a cut to be healed, a butt to be wiped, a hand to be held or a cheek to be kissed... and I realize... I do hold a powerful position, for it was given to me by the Lord Himself... and besides, slippers are more comfortable than heels any day.