It’s funny how much life changes after kids.  I used to be one of those people that had the perfect house, shiny car and great social life.  I shopped for the latest fashions and had my hair and nails done every week.  As a teenager, I swore that I’d never have kids.  As the eldest of five children, I witnessed firsthand parents’ sacrifices.  I decided that it just wasn’t for me.  My mom swore that I had no patience for children and advised me never to have any.  Well…she didn’t have to tell me because I would never, ever want them.  I dreamed of becoming a model and fashion designer.  I was going to move to New York and I would be famous!

To know me now, you would never know that I once had those feelings.  I love kids and my mom was pleasantly surprised with my level of patience.  In fact, she thinks that I’m much too patient! Sure, my house is clean and cute but far from perfect.  My son’s handprints and boogers can be found on the hallway walls.  Toys are usually strewn across the floor and Dr. Seuss books line my bookshelves.  When I’m not wiping pee off of the toilet seat, I’m spot cleaning the carpet.  The new puppy has decided that he’s just too good for outside bowel movements and my son has terrible aim.  If I can make it through the next few months with the dog and my son potty trained, then I deserve a Nobel Prize.

Most of my days consist of yoga pants, t-shirts, an unkept pony tail and little make-up.  No more shopping sprees or nail appointments.  Those days are over.  Most of my shopping is done at Target or the Children’s Place.  Sometimes I’ll splurge and buy myself a pair of new jeans or a bra, which are usually bought off the clearance rack at JCPenney.  Instead of shopping for the latest designer fashions, I’m at Meijer deciding which roast to buy. My teenage daughter always needs something and my son always wants something, which leaves little left from my budget.  Bye, bye Manolo Blahniks!

Author: Rhonda Gutierrez