Well, after talking about it for over three years, I have finally taken the plunge! I have put in my two-weeks notice at work and won't be returning to my three-day-a-week office grind after Thanksgiving. As I look back on these last three years, it has been an interesting ride. There are times where I wanted to stay home so much that I could *taste it*! And there were other times where I couldn't even see myself considering it (ex: when Madelyn was at the peak of being "two":P ). But when I took 3 weeks off recently, I intentionly did it to "try on" being a stay-at-home mom (or SAHM, as I have learned). The three weeks had its challenges, but overall it was wonderful! I loved being with my children and seeing them through the WHOLE week. I know that to some it seems like there can't be that much difference in how I relate to them two weekdays vs. five weekdays, but I have discovered that, at least in my family, *it does*! They have both grown closer to me, and I don't think it is in an abnormal sort way. I didn't like that when I was home with them 2 days out of the week, I was mostly doing chores to keep up. When I'm home with them full-time, I get to spread out the chores and have more fun with them. For me, it just comes down to - I desire to stay home with them and I can, so why wouldn't I?
Now, for the truth about how I feel about this. Don't get me wrong! I'm excited! But there is the part of me that kept me from doing this for a long time. I'm scared that I'm not going to do a good job, that I'm not going to like it, that I'm gonna miss the professional interaction. I still have these fears, but after the three weeks off, I just figured out that the trade-off for working part-time wasn't worth it anymore for my family. I enjoy the extended interaction with my children, the ability to plan extraordinary things or to be able to just stick around home if we want. Work will always be there, and I may go back to being engineer one day, but for right now, my kids and my home get my full attention.
5 comments:
WOW! That IS news!
Congratulations, and have a wonderful time.
(See. I DO still occasionally check in on your blog!)
Hey Mel! Wow, how cool! I know that you guys have thought about this for awhile. You will be an awesome SAHM, and I have no doubt that you will find some cool and creative projects for yourself. We will be praying for you as you make the transition. I can't wait until Christmas! I love and miss you!
Dear Melissa (and everyone), Congratulations on your decision to be a SAHM. That was my most favorite job ever. You will enjoy it, and you will be great at it. Enjoy!
Congratulations on your recent promotion! It will be challenging, but largely rewarding. Find a great Mom's group - this is essential to your survival! Welcome to the club....
Thanks for all your wonderful comments! Today is my first official day in my new position and it is already off to a good start.
Tiffany, I already have a great Mom's Group (they meet on Fridays). It has already been such a support already! The only unfortunate part is that it is across town. Now I have to figure out how to gather the SAHMs in my neighborhood together so that we can support each other. I know we have them... How do I find them?
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