Happy Anniversary to Me!

Yesterday was the five-year anniversary of my last day of (paid) work. I quit my prestigious job of doing public relations for T-Mobile and other companies (Microsoft, SAP, PogoPet) to change diapers, clean up messes and try to decipher baby talk. That's right, I decided to stay home full time with my kids. At the time I was one day overdue with Zachary, and Tyler was 20 months old.

I remember having a chain to count down the days -- not until Zachary was born (since I knew he would be late), but until my last day of work. My first day of being home was my birthday -- happy birthday to me!!!

My how the time flies. I couldn't believe it when I realized this week that I've been home full time for five years. There is nothing to make you feel as incompetent, useless and, well, stupid than being a mom. I get to the point when I think I have it about figured out, and then one or more of the kids throw a curve ball at me. However, overall I think I'm doing okay. At least I haven't been fired or demoted, so I guess that's a good sign. :)

I am grateful that I get to be home with my kids, although it is a whole lot harder than working full-time. I still remember when I babysat for a friend's little boy and she called to say she was staying home sick. Then she called back about 30 minutes later and said she changed her mind -- going to the office was going to be easier than staying home with a toddler when she wasn't feeling well. How true!!! Moms never get a day off for sickness! (So let me just warn you to never ask me the question about whether or not I work ... see previous blog entry about that one! :)

Anyway, I worked in a career that was so fast-paced and intense that many people burned out after just a few years in the field. (Yes, those Microsoft people really are work-aholics!) And that job was a piece of cake compared with motherhood. However, I'm grateful that I get this hard job: It's got way better benefits; I'm not missing a second of my kids' lives, even when sometimes I would rather; I never have to feel like I'm being overpaid; my "co-workers" (mom friends) are a lot more enjoyable than my co-workers ever were -- they don't mind throw-up or potty stories and even share a few of their own; etc., etc., etc. :)

I am very grateful for a wonderful husband who goes to work everyday so I can stay home and make sure our kids are safe and sound at home. I am grateful that Paul is talented and blessed enough to have a job that provides well enough for our needs. Although money is often tight, we are blessed to have exactly what we need ... and even a little scrapbooking stuff in addition. :)

In any case, I just wanted to share the joy.

(Paul - I included PogoPet for you ... I hope you appreciate it! :)