I'm already doing it. When I was young, I always thought I'd work outside the home whether or not I needed to financially, because that's what "real" women did. WRONG. I had some ass-backwards ideas (probably still do, though I'm trying to become more aware every day). When I got a little older, I figured it was a pipe-dream to be able to stay home with my children and that I'd likely have to work for financial reasons. Now that I'm here, I realize that for me, you, and our family, me being home with you is what is best. So, we sold things, we gave up things, we altered our lives and I'm here. We're not wealthy. We have to do some pretty fancy footwork to pay every bill. We don't have a lot left over. I've started my own business to help supplement our income. It's hard. And I love every last bit of it. I love that I get to see your shining face every morning and I don't have to rush it off to daycare. I love that I don't feel the guilt I KNOW I'd feel if I was away from you as you rolled over the first time, took your first step, said "Mama" at first, or just did any number of hilarious, wonderful, awe-inspiring things you do each and every day.
I loved teaching. Loved it. And I do miss it. I did not love it as much as I love you. I do not miss it more than I would miss you.
Let me be clear here, though I slightly resent feeling that I have to write this disclaimer on a post to my son, I do not think staying home is the "right" thing. Nor do I think it's "right" to work for pay. I think this is the right thing for us. Being here, with you, my phenomenal son, is being in my dream job. Thank you for giving me that gift. Thank you to your dada for helping make it a reality.
