it's boogie's world and I'm just living in it....

I never really thought I would be a stay-at-home-mom.  It sounded fun and rewarding, but I guess I never really put a lot of thought into it.  When we got pregnant with Boogie, my frame of mind changed. I instantly started feeling that motherly bond and wanting what was best for him. As I moved farther and farther along in my pregnancy, we started to realize that daycare was not an option for us.  I'm a strong believer in the benefits of the socialization and structure it provides, but I've been on the other side. I've worked in infant and toddler rooms, so I know how hard it is for teachers to provide the individual love and attention children need, especially at such a young age.  I also started to remember how many times I was the one to witness other people's children's 'firsts;' first steps, first words. I could not imagine having an almost stranger experience those moments with my son.

As soon as Boogie arrived, the decision was easy.  There was no way I was going back to work full-time; no way I was handing him off every morning. Granted, I loved my job, my co-workers, my residents, but I loved my son sooooo much more.  Plus, I worked for a non-profit and my salary was nothing to write home about....more than 1/2 of it would go to pay for daycare and well, that just didn't seem to make any sense.

We decided I would go back part-time.  We worked out a schedule so that either myself or J would always be home with Boogie while the other was at work. It seemed like this would give us all the best of both worlds. After a few weeks, we were starting to notice that this wasn't the case.  The schedule was confusing to Boogie, I had the same responsibilities I did in my 40-50 hr/week job and expected to complete them in just 12-15hr/week, and it was interfering with J's job. After 20 hours in the car (to and from Chicago) and a long heart-to-heart, we decided that "mom" would be my new job title.  From now till the end of the year I'm working on training and transitioning my responsibilities to others. Then, as of Jan1st, I am employed on a PRN, as needed, basis only.  I will be responsible for teaching a couple classes throughout the year and that's all.

Sure, it will be an adjustment...financially, mentally...but it's what's best for our family.

So far, "mom" is the best job I've ever had and Boogie the greatest boss!! I actually feel a lot busier now than I ever did before. Mainly because I'm now living by someone else's schedule and needs. There is no "me" time. It's all about what he needs now and what he will need next. We're also out and about a lot. We've joined two different playgroups and attend playdates and events about twice a week.  We're also now members of Gymboree! Boogie was definitely the rockstar, teacher's pet at our free trial class.  He had soooo much fun, that I had to keep that experience going for him.  We have found a church we like and I hope we can become involved in the programs and groups they offer as well.

J and I have always shared the household "chores," but now that I'm home...they're all mine!  If you would come see my house right now you'd know that I haven't quite mastered that role just yet......

This has been one of the best decisions we've made so far.  I love my new role.  This opportunity goes by fast and I'm so happy that I'll be able to experience this time with Boogie.  For now, it's Boogie's world and I'm just living in it....