It's been a bit of a crazy roller coaster around here since January. Lance graduated at the end of December, and we were all keeping our fingers crossed that he would get a great job before too long. I don't think either of us expected such a quick answer to our prayers- Lance had an interview lined up before we even left Grandma and Grandpa's house after Christmas and started his new job as an estimator the second week of January.
I always knew I wanted to be a stay-at-home mom, but I admit I was shocked when it really came time to make that decision. I have come to really enjoy my job and the people I work with. I was hoping at first to just drastically cut back my hours, working once a week. When my manager told me that wasn't possible, I realized there were only two decisions: work more than I want to, or not at all.
As soon as I made the decision to quit, I felt peace. It hasn't been easy, but I know it is the right decision. At first I thought maybe I'm supposed to quit because something crazy will happen, like Lance will get some really heavy-duty calling or we'll have quadruplets (ok, maybe not quadruplets, but you get the idea). But then I looked at Andy. And I realized I don't need any other reason. Andy is enough. And he needs his mommy, even if he doesn't know it yet.
The last day of work was tough. I will miss the part of my identity that is The Labor and Delivery Nurse. And I will miss my friends. But now, I have more time for things like this:
Playing with my family
Preventing Andy from killing himself (this is after I found him eating a blue highlighter)
Going to church (Now I can go every Sunday!)
Getting ready for the family reunion! (Quizzing Andy on who's who... he does well with Dada and even Grandma Fife, but still can't pick out Mama. Go figure.)
Getting my hair cut. Ok, maybe I don't expressly have more time for that, but I figured a change in lifestyle required a change in hairstyle, too.
I'm still getting used to this full-time at home thing, but I know it will be worth it. Mom, here's to you for always being there for me. I hope I can be as good a Mommy to Andy as you have been (and still are) to me.
lookin' good, potato chip! it won't be easy at first, but i'm sure you're going to do a great job being a full-time mom.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on Lance's new job and your new job (being a full-time stay-at-home-mom)!
ReplyDeleteCute haircut and highlights! Fun pictures of Andy! :)
You are lucky to have a reunion (in California? Or?) Have a good time and enjoy every minute with your family. I sure miss my family (it's lonely here in Germany)
You looked GREAAAAAAAAT!! Loved the picture of Andy praying.. Cute!
ReplyDeleteThanks for the pictures- I love Andys "fake" smile. I hear he is a wild child. From the stories I hear, he needs at least 3 SAHM's to watch over him. Can't wait to see you all soon.
ReplyDeleteHow much did you cut off your hair? You need to post a before picture too.
Pretty hair, and I hope the adjustment to your new life goes well. I know that losing a part of your identity is hard, and that all of a sudden you don't feel as respected as you used to be, even to yourself, but it's definitely worth it! You can do it! Love you!
ReplyDeleteI stopped working right before Natalie turned one and going from being a working mom to a full time at home mom of a toddler was not an easy change, even when you know its for the best. It will take some time to adjust and find your groove, but you'll get there, and you'll be awesome! And a great haircut always makes everything better!
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