How do you balance motherhood, four children, and bookkeeping for your family utility business?
Lauren: Finding a balance is hard, but I try to stay ahead. For example, I fill out forms when I receive them from school instead of putting them off. I still use a paper calendar to keep up with daily/monthly happenings. I must always see the big picture to plan accordingly. As far as the work I do from home, I try to complete bookkeeping, cleaning, and errands for the house while the kids are in school so that I can begin my second job, which is carpooling, baseball games/practice, and all other extracurricular activities after picking them up from school.
What inspired you to transition from practicing nursing to a stay-at-home mom at the beginning stages of motherhood?
Lauren: I loved working outside the home, but when our fourth child was born, my husband and I took a step back and felt it would be best if I took some time off from working hospital hours (12-hour night shifts) and spent that extra time at home. We have been incredibly blessed to be able to do this and hope that, when looking back, it was the right decision.
How do you support and encourage your children to continue playing various sports?
Lauren: We have always encouraged our kids to participate in activities. With four kids, it’s hard not to become overwhelmed. Thankfully, our boys are interested in most of the same activities. We try to encourage individual sports and activities as well as team sports.
Describe your parenting style with three boys and one girl (the youngest).
Lauren: Having three boys and then a girl changed the dynamic around the house. When they were younger, they honestly were the best years. They all loved each other and played so well together. Evelyn was so easy. She has lived at the ballpark and never complained. Not having family close to watch them meant everyone had to attend all the activities. And there were always friends who never hesitated to help. As they have gotten older, they have their differences, but for the most part, they support each other.
Describe how Christianity plays a role in your parenting style.
Lauren: Raising our kids in a Godly home is our utmost priority. Although this comes with many challenges, we feel that this is what we are chosen to do. The Lord has blessed us with four amazing kids and has entrusted us to lead and guide them in a way that glorifies Him.
How do you feel about the summer mission trip with your oldest sons?
Lauren: We are so excited to go back to Guatemala this summer. It is such an honor to serve the Lord through missions, and for my boys to experience this is unmatched by any experience they have had.
How does country living impact your children?
Lauren: We love living in the country. It’s our sanctuary, and we can come home and remove ourselves from the busyness of life. Whether it’s fishing, riding four-wheelers, swimming, or just sitting on the swing and taking it all in. Our lives are so chaotic with all the activities the kids are involved in, and it’s nice to come home and feel removed from it all.
How do you manage your self-care?
Lauren: Self-care for me is working in my yard. My dad and I have always enjoyed picking weeds out of our flower beds. Crazy, I know, but there is something satisfying about doing it. I also enjoy listening to worship music while doing things around the house. It lifts my spirits to deal with the heaviness of life.
Rapid Fire Questions
Favorite movie? Secretariat
Chore you would delegate if you could? Laundry
Bucket list travel destinations? Alaska and anywhere tropical
Best advice you’ve ever received? Live each day to
the fullest, forgive, and move on.
One thing you would do over if you could?
Nothing. It’s made me who I am today.
Lauren Evers has been married to Justin Evers for 20 years. They have four children and reside in Tallassee, AL.
