I have been feeling discouraged and not wanting to do anything; teach my child, teach my students, engage in my Christian groups…nothing.
So what does this mama do?
Buy an office!
I know, I know…I should have done something else with my stimulus check, like save it for our future home. But mental health and a peace of mind is important to me; especially during this quarantine.
I was up one night deciding what to do about my aching back–from working in my bed, a backless stool in the kitchen, and a not-so-comfy pile of pillows on the floor–and my motivation to stay productive. I had already invested in my newest hobby–painting– and bought myself a NLT Bible to avoid the distraction of my phone.
No such luck.
I felt myself falling into another hole…and I REFUSE to go there after making some progress this year. So my cousin put the thought of an office into my head and I went into a searching hole. I didn’t want something ridiculously expensive, of course, but I also wanted to make a space that I was excited to go to.
You all know I’m not one to give advice–because you’re going to do what you want to do anyway–but I will say making a space for yourself is important. I thought that meant just having a room you don’t have to share with your child. Really, it’s just a space to call your own, to be productive, to have peace.
I’ve only had my “at home” office for few a days now and I’ve set it up in my bedroom (thank God I was able to clean it up and make enough space…not knowing I was going to do this) Honestly, it has been the absolute best. I found myself interacting with my families more, really reaching out to them, coming up with more lessons, sneaking in some writing because I have two computers to work on, and joining in on some ZOOM calls with my Christian family.
On top of that, getting dressed has boosted my motivation. I love dressing up! Makeup! Hair (even though I’m loc’ing right now)! A dress! A solid breakfast with tea! And I am good to go. I felt important–not that I didn’t think I wasn’t, but having nowhere to go brought on my slackness. I had an organized area to get my life together and it was everything I needed. Even Ky has caught on. Wearing her favorite things (dresses and skirts), has boosted her spirits as well.
I say all this to say….do what makes you happy. I think we get so caught in all the “no, I HAVE to do this” that we make ourselves miserable. Just do, embrace the peace it gives you, and you won’t regret it! 
(and if you do, Facebook market and eBay could be your next best friends! **fades into bushes Homer style**)
-Ash
Being A Mom Means 