When we married, my husband was a young, aspiring professional who decided to open his own firm. I was a hard-working registered nurse who had applied to graduate school. I loved my job immensely, and, at that time, I was the breadwinner. We purchased a modest home, and within a year we were thrilled to be pregnant. I really thought I would go back to work after giving birth.
Instead, once the doctor placed our daughter in my arms, I felt a love I didn’t know existed. I said to my husband “I’m not going back to work.” Stunned, he said “You have to! We just bought a house!” That’s when I said we would figure it out. We worked out a budget that meant I really stayed home – no dinners out, no travel…nothing. I scoured store circulars for sales and if I didn’t have a coupon, I didn’t buy it. And you know what? We did it.
I breast-fed for 17 months so we didn’t need formula. My mother-in-law bought diapers and baby clothes out of the goodness of her heart. And then my husband’s business began to grow into a profitable entity, and I never did go back to nursing. He earned; I kept a gentle, loving, non-stressful home and we had one more child.
I don’t have a Master’s degree in Nursing, but I am a Dr. Laura graduate. My girls are responsible, young professionals who show respect and gratitude. You helped me and I helped them. Please don’t ever retire!
Kathy
I Am a Dr. Laura Graduate
