After my temporary teaching position was over last year I decided that I wouldn’t go back to work, instead I would stay home with Braylen. Allen was completely supportive of whichever path. His only concern was that I might need to find something I could do on my own, separate from being a SAHM. Something I could call my own.
So out of that simple request, Braylabee’s was born. I never, ever could have anticipated the amount of orders that I would ship out every week. I ended up staying awake until 3:00 in the morning most days and Braylen spent at least one day a week with someone else so I could catch up on orders. So instead of loving this “hobby” of mine I was tired. So tired. Allen and I even talked about considerably decreasing the amount of orders I would take after the first of the year.
And then about two weeks ago I received a phone call about a teaching position literally less than 5 minutes from my house. When I decided not to go back last year, I decided that I wouldn’t interview or pursue a job at all. I remember Allen asking me about this school, he asked if I would go back to teaching if I were offered a job there. My reply was that it would be perfect, the best of both worlds (in my opinion) and I would seriously consider taking that job.
So I prayed and my answer was crystal clear. Everything lined up so perfectly. I had such a peace about my decision. I thought about Braylen and how tired I’ve been, how I haven’t been able to give her my full attention. I thought about last year, when I worked, how sweet and precious our time was together. How I cherished every. single. moment. Somehow I had lost sight of that, I had taken it for granted. More importantly, I had taken my time with her AND Allen for granted. As soon as he came in I would rush downstairs to fill orders.
As you know I firmly believe that God is in the details. I knew before I even took time to think about my decision what it would be. Everything fit together seamlessly, so many little details fell into place over the past few months. I can see now that God has been working, even when I didn’t know the plan, He did.
So effective January 2, I will start teaching kindergarten for a teacher who took an early retirement last month. I’ve already met the class and I’ve been working in the classroom. Braylen went with me the other day while I worked and she played with blocks. I couldn’t help but think, “My heart is full.”
What about Braylabee’s? I won’t be taking any orders at this time. I will have “wall sales” on Facebook from time to time for custom clothing and accessories. To everyone who purchased from Braylabee’s, promoted Braylabee’s, supportive Braylabee’s, I thank you. It has been such a fun year and I am humbled and thankful for each person who played a role.
What about the blog? The blog is here to stay. It is the perfect way to document our lives and it’s something that is a priority. Plus, when I worked before I had no problem staying current with the blog. Life in the Green house will continue!
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Lindsey says
So happy for you Jennifer! I hope that you enjoy it! The kids will be soooo lucky to have you!
Angie says
I am so happy that you had such clarity and everything worked out so wonderfully.
Ill be thinking and praying for you as you prepare for this new transition!! I can completely understand the cherishing every single moment – I realize that I do the same the days that I sub, and it is a big slap in the face realizing that I take so many moments for granted on the days I am home with K. It keeps me in check ๐
Hoping all goes well!!!
Meredith says
So happy for you!!
Karen At Home says
Congratulations Jennifer! It sounds like the perfect position for you. God really does provide!
Brittany says
so excited for you jen! i am excited about the certainty that God has given you!! i am here to support you in any decision you make! let me know if i can ever help you in any way!
Happiness Is... says
Congratulations! I work full-time, and as hard as it is sometimes, it totally makes me cherish our down time and quiet time even more. Good luck with the transition!
Faith says
I’m so thankful for all the ways that God worked to make His plan crystal clear. It sounds like it all worked out perfectly!!
Megan says
I’m so glad you had a crystal clear answer!!! That is the best feeling!
Heather says
Isn’t it amazing how sometimes God speaks loud and clear? So happy for you and your family.
Ashley W says
That is WONDERFUL!! Which school is it?? I am so happy for you!
wallacefamilyblog says
Its amazing how God puts the perfect thing in our life. So happy for you, teaching is a wonderful thing!
Erin says
SO happy for this new path you’ll be taking this year! And I want to thank you for our last minute Braylabees order the other week. It was the perfect Christmas outfit! Cannot wait to hear more about your new adventures at school!
Perfectly Imperfect says
I’m so happy for you that you have such an amazing opportunity!!! I think you’ll love it!!
Kat says
SO excited for your new 2012 endeavors! Good luck!
Ashley says
I am so happy for you! This sounds like the perfect opportunity and an answer to your prayers!
Barclay Kathryn says
Oh so sad to hear about Braylabees, but so excited for you and your next adventure! ๐