Three years ago I had a plan. I was going to have one more baby and when that baby was old enough I was going to go back to work. After all, what’s one in preschool?

But then the doctor said I was having triplets and my world turned upside-down. Preschool for one child may be affordable but for three? Not so much.

This meant I’d be staying home for the forseeable future but it didn’t mean I couldn’t pursue a career or at least a hobby in my “free” time.

As a mom I find it easy to get lost in my kids. To get lost in the little details of every day life. Of course these are things that need to get done like a clean house and clean and well-fed kids. But what about me? Can mom be mom and do something she enjoys? Even a mom of multiples?

I think so!

I enjoy writing. Mostly I enjoy writing fiction novels but since the birth of my girls I have had more to write on. They’ve inspired many articles and even book ideas. Instead of hampering my hobby, my girls have given me so much more.

And writing is something I can do from home. Something I can pursue while they nap or sleep at night. I can care for them and care for myself.

I’ve even had the chance to leave the kids with their dad or grandparents and go to writing conferences. This has been both a chance to get away and a chance to learn. These short-term trips were the boosts I needed to come home to be a better mom and a better writer.

I encourage you to find something you love and pursue it. Even if you only have a few free moments a day. Even if it doesn’t become a career, it may be the boost your need to be a better mom. Or at least a happier, more relaxed mom for taking some time for yourself.

Writing, photography, scrapbooking, blogging, singing, drama – all great hobbies to boost our spirits. All hobbies that can be enhanced by our multiples not suppressed by them.

Get out there and enjoy life! It may not be what you planned but it is what God gave you. Embrace your new life and join me for some fun.

(photo by dabawenya)