I was a mom who worked full time for many years. About 7 years ago I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This in many ways was a big blessing to me and my family. The cancer and treatment were very tough but the change of life was wonderful. Money was very tight but there were many wonderful blessings. I was able to spend several years with my sons as they were maturing into gentle giants (6'-6'2", 200 to 240). Time with them and my husband has been one of the best things in my life. The highlights of my day are getting up with them in the morning and telling them I love them and getting a hug before they leave for school and work. Going out to lunch with my husband during the week (it may be fast food but it is still a date). I don't enjoy house work but I do it. I still miss the satisfaction of completing complex jobs at work (compared to never-ending house work).
We don't have new vehicles, fancy clothes, or expensive vacations but we have a very close family that I wouldn't change for the world.