Third Blog Check! #3

 Dear Blog,

I hope everyone has been well. Coming from a large family means constant change. Some of my siblings spend months at their mom’s house, four switch between homes with their dad, my older sister has moved out, and Ava and Brennan stay at home while I’m away at college. This dynamic has not only shaped our relationships but also impacted our financial realities in different ways.

One of the biggest changes in my family has been the shift in social class over the years. When my mom and their dad were together, our financial situation was stable, but after their divorce, it changed drastically. For a time, it was just the seven of us with my mom, and money was tight. My older sisters and I had to step up, helping with babysitting, cooking, and keeping the household running while my mom worked tirelessly to support us. This period taught us humility, as we adjusted to living with less and appreciating what we had.

Meanwhile, my siblings who split time between homes experienced a contrast in financial lifestyles. At their dad’s house, they have access to luxury—new phones, computers, gaming consoles, and brand-name clothes. At home, my mom prioritizes practicality over materialism, choosing quality time over unnecessary spending. This divide became more noticeable over the years, shaping how my siblings view money and what they expect from it.

My mom’s determination led to another turning point in our financial situation. She didn’t just wait for circumstances to change—she built her own stability. After working hard to earn her certificate, she now owns a daycare, transforming our financial position for the better. Her story reminds me of our class discussion on immigration. Like immigrant families who start from scratch, facing setbacks while rebuilding their lives, my mom sacrificed and worked tirelessly to create a better future for us. Her resilience mirrors the struggles many immigrants face when trying to establish themselves in an unfamiliar environment, proving that perseverance leads to success.

Even though our household is more financially stable now, my mom still values practicality over excess. While my siblings continue to enjoy luxuries at their dad’s, at home, we appreciate what we have without focusing on brand names or the latest trends. Last Christmas highlighted this difference. My little sister opened a gift and immediately said, "If this isn't a Stanley, I won’t use it or like it." Meanwhile, I was simply grateful to receive a water bottle. My other sister gifted me a tumbler from Five Below, and I use it daily without issue.

Each of my siblings interacts with our home environment in unique ways. Rylan and Sophia, now teenagers, mostly stay in their rooms unless food or family time calls them out. Brooklyn, Ayden, and Brennan are the young ones, playing outside and enjoying local adventures. Mikey and Kenzie, when home from their mom’s, love cooking with their dad and playing board games. These everyday routines reflect how, despite financial differences, we all find ways to stay connected.

Looking ahead, I know my upbringing has shaped how I view money and stability. I want a comfortable lifestyle when I start my own family, but I know happiness isn’t dependent on material wealth. My mom’s strength has shown me that independence and perseverance matter far more than luxury. While adjusting to life away from home in my dorm is sometimes challenging, I remind myself that change is part of growth. No matter where I end up, I’ll always be grateful that I wasn’t spoiled, but instead, grew up knowing the value of hard work and resilience.