Reality Check

10, 15, 20 years ago I made assumptions how my life would be at 45 (yes I'm stating my age!):

Assumption: I would be well established in my career.
Reality: After going back to school to get a 2nd degree, working full time then obtaining my CPA license, I took a job part-time.  While I like my job, it is not a career job.  It does seem to be the best option right now for my family and me.

Assumption: Finances would not be as big as concern as in years earlier.
Reality: Ha! Blame it on working part-time, the economy, and college coming up soon. 

Assumption: Raising older children would be easier than caring for infants or toddlers.
Reality: It is easier physically.  I don't run after them. I am not sleep deprived. Now I wake up way before they do on the weekends. They can be left alone for hours at a time.  In other ways it is more difficult.  Their attitudes can be emotionally draining. My worries are different.  They are driving.  They have to make choices about alcohol, drugs and sex. A lot of pressure to do well in school - state universities are getting tougher and tougher to get accepted into. I second guess myself more.  I keep thinking there is so little time left they will be at home to mold them into responsible adults.  The realization they are not always growing up to be like I envisioned but are still wonderful people.  Reflecting on: When they are good they are very good. When they are bad they are rotten.

Assumption: I would have my mother in my life. My children would have their grandmother.
Reality: I lost my mom in July.  She was a wonderful mom but even better grandmother.  I was fortunate to have one grandmother around until I was 29.  My other grandmother is still alive at 101 years old.