The Unexpected

About a year ago, my world was flipped upside down.  The change was unexpected to say the least. I want to share what I learned over the last few years about the unexpected. 

 About two years ago, I uprooted my family and moved to "the big city" to take a new job.  I believed at the time (and still do believe), that the move was what I needed to do. I prayed about the decision and really felt peace when we decided to move.  After 3 months into my job, I realized just how miserable I was.  The environment of the office was negative and I worked with not nice people.  I was seeing my family less and less.  I was angry and cried all the time.  It was not how I wanted to be.  So, in June of last year, I decided to look for a new job.  A month later, I was approached about joining a different department within the organization.  All was going well and I decided the right thing to do was to tell my boss about what I was thinking.  I did and she became very angry.  So angry, she threatened to ruin my reputation if I did not resign.  I resigned that day (September 21, 2015 to be exact).  I left the building shaking and in tears, but also VERY relieved.  I was so relieved I didn't have to go back.  Don't get me wrong, it was rough, but it kicked off a journey of faith for me. 

After all the drama of leaving my job, several things ran through my mind.  What was I going to do?  How would I justify my move now? What would everyone think? My mind was overwhelmed with what had happened.  I always kind of roll my eyes when people say "God told me," because I feel like it is sometimes used to justify ones own actions.  BUT, in this particular situation, I felt God leading me.  I just KNEW I did not need to be in that job.  I didn't know what I was going to do, but that was not it.  

Also felt God reminding me about my past and how He had taken care of all my worries. About 3 years ago, I was starting the writing process in a doctoral program, took on new and very exciting responsibilities at work and happy with my two sweet girls.  On August 5, 2013, I was in a bad car accident.  I was fine but shaken.  I went to the ER, had x-rays and prescribed meds for pain.  About 5 days later, I still felt not quite right.  Sure enough, I was pregnant with my 3rd and totally unplanned baby!  Talk about shock!  I was NOT ready for a 3rd baby and I did NOT have time for a baby.  I cried and worried for awhile about all this. For me to carry a baby to term, requires a bit of planning and medication, so I fully expected to miscarry (horrible yes, but I have had 3 miscarriages because I did not have meds I needed).  To my complete surprise, my hormone levels were so high, the doctor commented that he wouldn't be surprised if I was pregnant with twins.  Of course, when you find out you are pregnant, even if you weren't ready, you become (eventually, hopefully) happy.  I did fall in love with my 3rd surprise baby very quickly.  On March 28, 2014, we had our 3rd (and final) baby, a little boy.  

I learned through that experience that unexpected experiences can be the greatest blessing.  I learned that God's plans are far greater than my own.  I learned that while I don't understand God's timing, His timing is always best.  

Fast forward to my current situation, and I am remembering those lessons.  So, after walking out of my job that day, I spent four months being a little depressed, emotional and wondering what on earth God wanted from me.  I can tell you, I am no longer upset and emotional, I am enjoying being where I am, but I still am not sure what God wants from me-and I am ok with that. 

The unexpected has taught me (again) that God's plans are not my own and His timing is always best, but also that I don't need to worry about the plan either.  I need to be faithful in times of uncertainty and expect God to take care of me.  Honestly, to expect God to take care of my family and I in times of career and financial instability, in times of learning new things and stepping way outside my comfort zone is hard but it is also freeing.  See, I learned, after my 3rd baby was born, that if I prayed and put everything in God's hands, I would be just fine (I'll clarify something though, I'd be fine but the road would not be easy).  I have taken this seriously since then and I pray daily about my decisions and "plans" I have.  While this road has not and will not be easy, I know that God has me in the right direction.  I am free to live my life in the moment, to put myself in situations where I can testify to His faithfulness without fear, and most of all, to live life without the worry of "how will all this works." 

Who knows what comes next??  I certainly don't, but I know it's going to be ok. :) 

"The Mom Jean"

So, this is my first time blogging.  I've wanted to do this for awhile, but I've always been a little hesitant.  I am not sure why, but today I decided to step out of my comfort zone and start this blogging thing--along with a few other endeavors.  Exciting things coming up!! 

Why the title "The Mom Jean?"  

First, I believe all moms have similar goals for their family--ultimately happy and healthy kids.   Regardless of what "kind" of mom you are, you do your best for your family.  You work hard, love hard and if you're like me, try VERY hard to do it ALL.  It's part of what happens when you become a mom, it's ingrained in you (it's in our genes ;)).  I struggle daily in my efforts to be a mom.  I wanted a place to vent, share thoughts, encourage others and maybe, help someone else.

Second, "The Mom Jean" is the name of my new little business venture.  I love shopping for my kids.  I shop for them more than I do for myself.  However, I never have time to go to the cute little boutique shops and find all the "Pinterest perfect" outfits for pictures or school events.  Not only that, but I HATE spending a fortune on kids clothes--especially when they'll likely be worn ONLY for said event.  SO, while searching for the cute little outfits at really affordable prices, I realized, why don't I just order from the manufacturer???  I've learned how to do this and I want to share. Basically, to get a great deal, you order a lot of pieces at the same time. Through "The Mom Jean," you'll be able to see adorable boys AND girl outfits, place your order with us and when we have a certain number, we will order a large quantity of items.  Of course, it'll take a little longer to get your items, but you just plan for it and enjoy the super affordable and adorable clothes for your littles. I won't lie, this has a lot to do with the fact that I have three kids and I don't want to spend a ton on their clothes--so I need friends to order with me!! 

Finally, the blog and the shopping are only pieces to a bigger puzzle for me.  I hope for both to grow into a great resource for moms, whether it be advice, suggestions, shopping or community, I hope you'll find it all through "The Mom Jean." 

That's all for now.  I can't wait for this all to get started. 

--Monica