I'm grateful to be a stay-at-home mom.

As Taylor was pouring out her heart to me after school today, telling me about all that had happened since I had last seen her, she said, "I'm so glad you're my mom. You're my best friend." This beautiful, heart-warming statement, reminded me of why I am so grateful to be a stay-at-home mom. With Taylor in ninth grade and Spencer in fifth, it would be so simple for me to begin working outside of the home again, and I know that I would have the encouragement and support of many to do so. However, as my kids continue to grow older, I feel content about my decision to continue to stay home with them. Today was not unlike every other day of the week, other than Taylor doesn't usually profess so much love for me. She does, however, spill her heart out to me every day with all that has occurred at seminary and school. Some of it is important. Most of it is trivial. All of it is special. But I believe the simple act of me being there, every single day, is what makes it special. I can't imagine not being home each day as she walks in the house from school. Sure, she is old enough to take care of herself and is responsible enough to do what she needs to after school, but I am grateful that she doesn't come home to an empty house. I am grateful she comes home to me...That I am the first one she pours out her heart to each day. I don't hear, "You're my best friend" very often, but when I do, I am reminded of just how grateful I am to be her mom and of how grateful I am to simply be here.