Just Once...

Just once, I'd like to be alone in the bathroom.

Just once, I'd like to not have to pick up the backpacks from under the hooks where they're supposed to be hanging.

Just once, I'd like to have everyone LOVE the dinner I make.

Just once, I'd like to have a clean car, clean house, clean yard and clean children...all at the same time.

Just once, I'd like to have a full day to myself.

Just once, I'd like to be caught up on the laundry.

Just once, I'd like to be able to buy them whatever they want, when they want it, without worrying about budget.

Just once, I'd like to be able to buy myself whatever I want, when I want it, without worrying about what I won't be able to buy for them.

Just once, I'd like to open my drawer and see my brush sitting there instead of having to search the house for it.

Just once, I'd like to not have anything I HAVE to do, so that I can do everything I WANT to do with them.

Just once, I want to not feel guilty about not having enough time -- for work, for them, for me, for my responsibilities, for school...

Sigh.

But, I almost had a life full of "just onces." A life where my time was mine, my money was mine, I was caught up on laundry and the cleaning, my brush was always where it was supposed to be and I had privacy in the bathroom. I traveled, decorated, shopped, got things done and no one ever complained about dinner.

But I gave it all up for three shining faces and the chance to be called "Mommy."

And I've never looked back. And never will. It almost didn't happen. I know how lucky I am.

And I should have privacy again in about, oh, another 20 years. I'll wait.

It's worth it.