THAT married couple

I was reflecting today on my life.  Specifically the fact that I never wanted to be THAT married couple. 

• The couple that has children before they're done with school
• The couple that live with their parents to save some money 
• The couple that won't have a permanent place to call home until at least their early 30's
• The couple who have a futon (and sleeps on it)

I could go on, but I think I've made my point.

I've done all of these.  I was especially adamant about not living with parents, and we lived with Andy's parents for 4 month's.

But you know, I wouldn't trade the life I've led for anything.  Sure we are poor as the church mouse, but we are rich with love and devotion to each other.  I haven't cared about a single one these things as they have happened.  We have always had all we needed; food on the table, a roof over our head, and a family to call our own. 

I wish I could tell that girl that she won't give mite about any of those things she judged others for so easily.  That she would do all of them, and be so happy anyways.  That she would cherish this time when they had nothing, but felt like they had everything. 

I'm so grateful for all the wonderful people we have met through living in different places, who welcomed us and made us feel like we were apart of their family.  People who love our sweet Thomas even though they have never met him, and recognize him as member of our family.

 I'm grateful that I've been able to see so much of the amazing and diverse country that we live in, and all the adventures I've been able to go on with my little family.

Yellowstone

I suppose what I'm getting at, is that you can have this idea of what your life should be, but then life happens, and things happen that you could never have anticipated.  You don't have dwell on what you think should have been, though sometimes that is easier said than done.  Accept the challenges that life gives you, and find the joy.  Make it work some how.  Life will be so much better spent if you do.