So this is why you have kids!

As many of you know from my last post, I have been going through a tough time (hence the radio silence). In fact, I would say it is the most stressful time of my life – even more stressful than facing child birth! And it’s not over yet, not even close. Since purchasing our family home in March every single thing that could possibly go wrong in the settlement process has. We have failed to sell our apartment, our valuations have been less than the market indicated and every single administrative error you can imagine has occurred. The word “shambles” doesn’t even begin to describe what this process has been. It’s made even more frustrating by the fact that we have done everything right. We had pre-approval before purchase, we had our apartment on the market within two weeks of purchase, we submitted anything asked for by the bank within hours. Yup, sometimes you can do everything right and you are still destroyed. So, yes, it has been a tough time. One day I might tell you about it a bit more. It’s almost comedic when you break it down.

In this process I have been reminded at how strong my marriage is. It’s true that we have less time for each other these days, but when things got tough, we helped each other, see-sawing from the role of stressor to reassurer as required. We helped each other get through the pain in the form of griever and counsellor.

Also assisting are friends, family, red wine and some prescription drugs. But, the best stress reliever has come in the form of our beautiful girl. Now 22 months, she is an absolute delight to be around. Never has she sensed that Mum and Dad are going through turmoil. She just potters, giggles, tickles and chatters through it all.

Having a child really puts everything into perspective. The value of that cuddle she gives you when you get home is worth more than an inner city house; a kiss is worth more than legal fees; that moment every evening, when she sits on your lap with her cup of milk is more valuable than the family beach house. She reminded us that even if we lost everything, we will always have each other. Nawwwwwwww!

Now, I’m hoping it won’t come to that, but the journey to the finish line is a long one, and they keep extending the track ahead of us. But in the meantime I will remind myself that it doesn’t really matter. And, for anyone who ever wonders why you should have kids? I can testify that they’re better than valium!

Next: MEternity leave? You’ve got to be kidding me!