Monday, January 5, 2009

Will She or Won't She??

Here recently, I have been asked a lot more if I will be returning to work (one where I am paid). I always thought that hands down I would return to work, not even having to think about the answer. But, as everyone predicted, I began to have many different feelings once my sweet baby was born. There were many points to consider, much praying involved, and some deep down serious thought. Brad's, being the supportive husband that he is, only advice was "if you want to go back, go back", if you don't want to go back, then don't". Gotta love him---he totally wants me to make the decision on my own and feel good about it. First and foremost, we had to have quality childcare. For our family, a nanny was the best option. We thought being new to the area was going to afford its own challenges to finding one, not at all. Luckily, a fantastic one fell right into our lap. She is wonderful and comes highly recommended from many people at the hospital as she volunteers there once a week. Then there was the issue of how much to work. That was an easy one, the school district was more than happy to take time that I was willing to give and basically presented me with an offer that would be difficult to walk away from--two days a week with my office being less than 2 miles from my house to start with! Working for a school district is great, it does have its issues, but what other job gives you a spring break, Christmas break, Thanksgiving break, all sorts of days here and there, and the summers off?? I do miss my job as an OT and really love what I do--I have not worked since we moved in June! Working with children with special needs just really puts smile on my face, as cheesy as it sounds. Plus, I went to school a long time to get that OT degree and still owe the Medical University of South Carolina a nice sum of money. All of that aside, I know going back is the right thing for me to do--but I am more concerned about it being the right thing for Anderson. I want to do right by him. I know this sounds a bit dramatic, but it is my blog and I get to write what I want! Millions of parents return to work outside of the home and the kiddies are fine, but I cannot help having these thoughts. I could go on and on about my feelings about this, but as to not bore my faithful bloggie followers: she will--return to work that is---on a part-time trial basis.


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6 comments:

Lillian Thomas said...

Hey Jennifer! I have enjoyed reading your blog and Anderson is just the cutest! I have a blog set to private, and if you'd like to read just send me an email at fortfremont@yahoo.com. Hope y'all are having a happy new year!

Kelly said...

Oh Jennifer!!! I know your decision to return to work part-time has weighed heavy on your mind and heart. How wonderful that you have a wonderful, supportive husband; a job that will allow a flexible part-time schedule; and an outstanding nanny that will take excellent care of Anderson. It sounds like everything is falling into place....and if your not happy - you can always change your mind later! Just take one day at a time.

I wish you all the best!!!

MatersandMelons said...

That is a difficult decision and is different for each person who is making it. You will know once you go back if it is the right thing for you to do or not. Good luck, and just know that it will be really hard at first, but it does get easier!

Jodie said...

I am behind you no matter what - you know that! And don't forget if it becomes horrible and not worth it ot you or to Anderson then you can always change your mind!
love you!

Jo Leigh said...

It sounds like you have a great option with the best of both worlds...you can have 2 days as a working mommy, 3 days as a stay at home mommy & weekends to boot! I'm so happy for you that all of that fell into place. I wish you the best with your return to work, & (like you said) if it's not right you can change your mind! Anderson is so precious, & I enjoy watching him growing up on here! Happy New Year!

Unknown said...

Good decision JT! I think you will be happy! :)