In January of 2019, I started back to school to finish my bachelor’s degree. I had FINALLY talked my husband into letting me have his Veterans Education Benefits. He was never going to use them, so why shouldn’t I? Additionally besides paying 80% of my tuition, I was also entitled to basic BAH. For everyone reading who isn’t familiar with all the military acronyms- BAH stands for Basic Housing Allowance. Based on location I would get a monthly check based on the number of days I was in school that month. This monthly housing allowance was now my income. Not much, but hey! I’m contributing financially to the family again!
And I did. It has paid bills, provided a much-needed vacation in the middle of a pandemic, paid for braces for my kids, and more. And I have truly been grateful.
But back in January of 2019, there was one thing I really wanted this money to go for and none of those things were it.
I have been “blessed” with terrible teeth. Despite care and brushing, and prescription toothpaste. . . My mouth is not my best feature. Several years ago I lost 2 teeth to what is called reabsorption-where your teeth basically eat themselves. Fun stuff! I then lost another to a failed crown. I have been patiently waiting for the moment when we could afford to replace my teeth. Now that I was bringing extra money, it would finally be my turn.
Now here it is 2021. I was down to one last check, and by golly, it’s mine!! It won’t cover the whole process of getting 3 implants but it is enough to start the process.
This is a Mom’s life.
We are so busy sacrificing our needs and wants for the greater good, that we often forget that our needs and wants are part of the greater good. Someone else’s needs always seem more important, so we find ourselves sacrificing some more.
I declared 2021 the year of the teeth.
Both kids are now sporting braces for the next 3 years that are paid for. (And if you happen to live in the greater Memphis area and need a good Orthodontist check out Smile Straight.)
My husband has had oral surgery and although he needs a lot more done, I’m going to quit doing what I ALWAYS do and finally say it’s my turn.
I recently had a minor medical procedure and the nurse was helping me put my clothes back on because I was still groggy. She said she couldn’t find any printing or a tag on my leggings to show which was the front. . . That would be because they are too old, and too worn to be bothered with a silly thing like a tag. Luckily, as a Mom herself, she knew exactly what I was talking about. Some of the clothes in my closet are 20 years old!
Moms everywhere, if you need it, I give you permission to say, “It’s my turn.”
I am worth new clothes,
Decent makeup,
Teeth that don’t make you look like a hillbilly,
A splurge on something that just really makes you happy,
An education.
Join me and take the time for you. It’s time you spent some time sacrificing for you.
You’re worth it!
