I was a stay-at-home mom to my kids when they were little, until my youngest started school. Iโm a teacher and began teaching in their school. At first, I thought it was a perfect arrangement, because we all went together in the morning and left together in the afternoon. I taught for four years like that. I was exhausted all the time, had little patience for my family, got take-out meals five times a week and was constantly struggling to keep my house clean.
So last year (before the pandemic even hit), I decided that I wouldnโt be coming back for the next school year. Itโs been the best decision I ever made. Just because my children are older and in school doesnโt mean they donโt need me. Now Iโm able to do all the regular work (laundry, grocery shopping) when theyโre at school and then Iโm truly available to them emotionally and physically when theyโre home. Everyone (including my husband) is happier. My husband calls me his โlife managerโ as I take care of so much for our family. This all was driven home to me when I recently dropped off my 15-year-old daughter and I caught her staring at me, with tears in her eyes. She said โI just love you so much. Youโre the best mom, and Iโm so lucky. Iโm so glad youโre not working; itโs so much better than before.โ And I have to add itโs all been worth it.
Bonnie
The Best Decision I Ever Made