Well that went by quick. A full week off with my hubby & sweet kids. I can say we definitely made the most of it. Sleepovers, the beach, pool parties, museums, movies and much more! I am so thankful for everything we got to do together, but heading back to work today is tough.
I am usually pretty good and juggling it all without getting too caught up thinking about what I am missing from my kids life while I am work. But sometimes, after time off together or just full day alone with my kids, I wonder if it is really worth it. I think every working mom has these moments.
When I feel this way, I try to rationalize it. Would I cherish the time with my kids as much if I was with them ALL the time? Obviously, I would like to think the answer is yes… but honestly, I don’t know. When I get home from work, I am so happy to see my family. I enjoy every moment of dinner… hearing Hudson’s stories from school, watching Mila throw food down to the dog. I let Hudson take his time playing in the bath and read him extra books if he wants it. I hold Mila until she falls asleep and sometimes, just stare at her for a bit. If I was with them all day, would I have the same level of patience? Or would I be rushing to just get them to bed so I can finally have a moment to myself? I hate to say this… but I think it would be the latter.
I also try to focus on the positive things about working. I like my job, always have. I enjoy socializing with other adults, eating my lunch without having little hands steal half of it, and making money isn’t bad either.
Also, I suck at cooking and cleaning, so if that was my ‘job’ my husband would definitely fire me.
And while today I may be telling myself these things just to make myself feel better, by the end of the week I know I will be back to actually believing them. Hopefully.
so funny – i was the exact opposite. when I had my job… i was less patient because i was so tired and needed more time to get stuff done. now i have more time to manage things and i don't rush them as much (like at bed). so that's awesome for you!
That is funny! Every momma needs to find what works best for them, your kids are very lucky to have you home with them!
You bring up some great points. I'm kind of stuck in between both right now..for the most part I am a SAHM, but I freelance, so I try my best to get work done at home and only have to go into an office for a few hours every week or so. That being said, I do find myself rushing them to bed on the days when we've been together, up and running since 6am…and I look forward to the days that I go into the office when I take them to school/daycare for the day! As I contemplate going back full time, I am torn between what's going to be the best for them and me!! eek!!
It is so hard when it comes to decisions involving our kids! I wonder ALL THE TIME if I am making the right choices, but I bet that feeling never goes away! I hope you figure out the schedule that works best for you!
I so appreciate your honesty and openness on juggling it all as a working mom. So important that we don't gloss these struggles and triumphs over in the name of 'balance.' Thanks again for your visit on my SITS day. lovely to meet new friends.
Thanks for stopping by, Barb! I really appreciate your comment and thoughts!
Completely agree! I feel the same way about working outside of the home and regularly try to remind myself that a portion of my longing to be home is just looking at the other patch of grass. I also agree that it is really valuable to acknowledge the patience gained by stepping outside of the playroom each day, even it is it is to go to work!
I love the moments you painted for us around the dinner table and at bedtime. Maybe the key is to take the time to experience those – working or no. A sweet post!