This time I made it four months before admitting to myself that I do not have the emotional make up for working outside the home. Not when I have seven of the most adorable children walking the planet. Not when the guilt of not being here when my children get off the school bus chokes me like a Japanese pretzel. Not when I am compelled to pour all of my energy into my work which leaves crumbs for the people I care most about. I think the words of my father “Don’t ever do a half-assed job” genetically altered my very cells. I give whatever I’m doing 100% which, for the last four months, made me an excellent employee but a lousy momma.
June 8th is my last day at my beloved salon. I’m orphaning my work family and returning my attention to home. Since we cannot survive in our current situation without my income, I have placed an advertisement in the local paper for daycare and am pursuing a license from the state.
I see diapers in my future. (I miss them dearly) I see less guilt and more homemade meals. I see less tension headaches and more peace of mind. We’ve worked so hard to keep this home–it’s a joy to actually spend time in it again.
I feel like Dorothy when she woke up from her bad dream.
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June 1st, 2007 at 11:02 am
Yeah for you! Word to the wise: Buy Excedrin, lots of it!!
June 1st, 2007 at 3:28 pm
Sounds like a good idea regarding values, but I have doubts about the baby sitting. You seem to have so much ability with writing. How about a Bombeck type column?
June 1st, 2007 at 3:42 pm
Jeanine,
I agree and disagree with Bill. First, I think you would be an awesome child care provider given your love of children, and incredible sense of humor (trait most needed) and anyone would be honored to have you care for their child. I know Bill wasn’t saying that you weren’t but that you have other talents, child care provider is one of the most trusted positions for a parent who has to leave their child and you would fit that position well. I also know good ones who make darn good money. Bill is also SO SO right, you are an amazing writer who brings the humor and love of children out in your words, it would be a shame for you to not pursue that if that thought crosses your mind….
June 1st, 2007 at 3:57 pm
Kind of a bittersweet announcement. On the one hand I’m sorry that you had to give up something you were obviously very good at and sounds like you enjoyed, but on the other hand I’m glad you now get to be home doing what you enjoy most - being with your awesome family!
Dorothy was right… there is no place like home.
June 1st, 2007 at 4:29 pm
There is nothing like home is there? Good luck with the daycare. I think you will totally rock at it. I am home for the summer and waiting to hear if we get enough grants so I can be rehired. If not I will be looking for something myself. We decide to put the 3 oldest in a private school and I have to work in order for them to go. *pout*
June 3rd, 2007 at 2:36 pm
Jennine’s Dad said, “It’s great that you are genetically altered, there should be MORE people who do their best everyday, this world would be a better place!! The people will be lucky to have you watch their kids, God Bless, Love Dad
June 4th, 2007 at 2:34 am
I start working from home on Monday! Granted, I will still be working in my office - away from the kids- but STILL.
June 5th, 2007 at 1:37 am
Good luck. It sounds like a grwat fit for you.