Redefining “Enough”

Today was one of those days where I found myself slipping into a little self-pity. You know the kind - when you start comparing your life to what you thought it might look like by now.

I didn’t grow up rich. We always had enough - sometimes a little extra - and I got to do some pretty incredible things because my parents prioritized experiences and family. I followed the plan: went to college, got a degree, built a career. I once dreamed of a big job in the city, but life had other plans.

Then came the kids, and everything shifted. Suddenly, I didn’t dream of late nights in skyscrapers or business trips across time zones. I wanted bleachers, dance recitals, and carpools. I wanted to be there - fully there.

So I chose jobs that kept me close to home. They didn’t make us rich, but they gave me something more valuable: time. I was there for every school play, every tournament, every “Mom, can you come?” moment. When my mom got sick, and later my dad, I was there for that too. Those years weren’t easy, but I’m grateful I had the flexibility at my jobs to show up for the people who mattered most.

Our life has never been about luxury - it’s been about love. Our house is small, but it’s been filled with laughter, sleepovers, and birthday candles. Our cars are used, but they’ve taken us to the places that matter. Our vacations have been less about plane tickets and more about memories - road trips, tournaments, waterparks, and laughter that still echoes.

As my kids grow older, the reality of college costs and big dreams has crept in. My daughter was invited on two school trips this coming summer - one to New York for art and one to Italy for culture - but the price tag is hefty. We’ll figure it out but sacrifices have to be made without them knowing there are sacrifices being made. I’d be lying if I said it doesn’t sting when I can’t just say “yes” without calculating what needs to shift to make it happen. I wish we could all go together but that’s not in the cards. But even in that, there’s pride. My son is choosing firefighting - a path of service and courage - because he’s practical and grounded. My daughter is chasing her dreams with the same determination. Both work jobs and know the value and pride in making your path. And while I can’t hand them everything - like a fully or even half paid college education or a trip to Europe - I hope I’ve handed them the most important thing: perspective.

We don’t live a life of excess, but we live a life that’s full. Full of love. Full of laughter. Full of showing up. And maybe that’s what real wealth looks like.

Because at the end of the day, we’ve always had enough - and that’s more than enough for me. Even on days where it feels like life’s a little heavy.