So, today is the first day of my new career...

SAHM. I wish I could put an exclamation point at the end of it, but I am sooooo scared/apprehensive.

If someone were to ask me what word defines me, I would not think "wife," "daughter," "sister," or even "mother." The first phrase that comes to my mind is "I am a TEACHER!" I have been an English teacher for eleven years, and can truly say I LOVE(d) my job.

Friday was a very difficult day for me. After my last period, six girls stayed for a group hug and actually started crying--well, then of course there I was, bawling like a baby

I drove all the way home feeling pretty worthless...I have no job, I have no money, will anyone be proud of me?, who's going to analyze The Sun Also Rises with me?, will my DH still be attracted to me since when he wakes up I will be there; when he comes home I will be there; when he goes to bed I will be there--meanwhile, he's interacting with society all day long. Should I just cut my hair now and buy the minivan

I have never been more ill-equipped for a job in my life--I don't really cook, I hate cleaning, I'm a very shy person, and I don't even like little kids

And then to top it all off...I am being selfish! I know many, many women would give their right arm to be in my position.

Then again, I remind myself that there are so many wonderful things associated with staying home--but those are pretty hard for me to see right now.

I'm sorry I rambled on--I totally didn't expect this! Sigh...

Anyway, here we go...wish me luck!

Message edited 4/23/2007 9:27:29 AM.

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Good Luck! It will get so much easier with some time! You can learn to do all those things that you said you don't do!!!!

Just try and enjoy the stay at home mommy-ness that I so totally wish I had!!!

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Aww-good luck on your new position!

Just keep in mind it is only temporary, in two to three years they will both be in school and you ca go back.

There was only 2 months really left n the school year and maybe you can sub 2 days a week in September.

Now go take a walk!!!

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Good luck

Its a big adjustment, whether it is going back to work or staying home. Both are tough, both can make your feel lonely and both are exhausting.

But they both can be rewarding adn special. I am a working mom and my sister is a SAHM so I kinda see both sides. It is so rewarding to see your child reach a new milestone and know that you taught her that. Its so special to be using your skills as a teacher to teach your baby.

And remember, we are all here for you if you need to vent and to boast!

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

I'm sorry to bump this up, but I meant to thank you guys yesterday for your kind words--they are much appreciated.

First day went well...then again, Kate was at the ILs for a half day and anyway, there's still only one of her

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

I became a SAHM about a month ago after being in non-profit fundraising for 7 years. It was a bittersweet decision but I am loving every moment of being home with my son. I'm a grant writing consultant for a large non-profit and get thrown projects here and there so I still have my hand in it a little. The transition is going to be difficult but will feel more normal as time goes on.

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

I was just talking about this with my mom friends at playgroup this am. It is so very hard....the hardest job in the world and no one recognizes you with promotions, spot bonuses, a happy hour or a corporate outing, like you get with a job. I am actually finding it much harder than I thought I was and struggle everyday with the decision of going back to work so that I am happier. I actually work from home which everyone always tells me "oh you are so lucky...what a great opporutnity." But honestly, it is great for everyone but me. We avoid daycare costs, I make money, but I still have to be the SAHM who takes care of the house etc. DH helps out tremendously, but it is still very difficult.

Anyway, sorry for babbling, but I wanted to let you know that it is ok to admit that being a SAHM is very hard and sometimes you are not at your happiest, but there are definately more good times than bad!

I also started realizing that no matter what you do, if you are a working mom, a SAHM or a WAHM you have mom guilt. I feel guilty that I have my kids home with me and cant give them attention all the time becasue I have to get work done and I feel bad that I don't send them to daycare for a couple hours a week. Crazy, right?!

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Posted by Eireann


I have never been more ill-equipped for a job in my life--I don't really cook, I hate cleaning, I'm a very shy person, and I don't even like little kids

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

I know I'm new to this site but I had to jump in and reply.

I soooo understand how you feel.Staying home was a hard transition for me.I felt so lost for a while, kind of felt like I was in morning as silly as that sounds.
It was hard adjusting, getting into a different groove but I love staying home with her I missed her first 2 years.I worked long hours and I traveled with my job ,I missed alot.

I found that staying home is the hardest and most challenging job I ever or will ever have but I wouldnt trade it for the world.

Good luck in your new position you will do GREAT!!!

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Good luck with the transition. I hope your fears are laid to rest...

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Get involved in moms groups, maybe book clubs to keep active in your reading/discussing books, etc.

Dont feel like your child has to be "older" in order to join mommy groups. I joined one when I was preggo wth my first and still am in contact with some great moms I met.

Moms know that it's a time when we all need eachother (newborn stage) and really want to get out and chat...

I can totally feel your pain. I just work part time, and when I work I miss them within an hour of leaving the house , and when Im home for a long stretch without working, Im SO ready to get out a little...

The grass isnt greener on either side.
It will take adjusting, but Im sure you'll do great !

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

good luck to you. it is very rewarding but also hard at times. this board is great resource for finding groups, advice and for venting. i found the transition a little hard since dh works crazy hours and i am home all day from the minute Olivia wakes till she sleeps. If you need to chat you can always send a fm.

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

You will be great. I have seen you with your daughter and you are an amazing mom.

I did laugh though when you said you dont cook or clean because thats me as well. I told Dh if I cant have a cleaning woman he has to clean

Re: So, today is the first day of my new career...

Good Luck...this new chapter in your life will get easier as time goes by and your little babes will love to have you home