Balancing Act

So what else to expect from a busy momma -- a post about the work/life challenge.  Yes, it's been written before but not by me. 

I have two beautiful little girls and my love for them is limitless.  I've stayed home with each of them and as much as I relished that time, I yearned for more.  I found that I needed to be with adults, using my brain and abilities for more than Sesame Street and goldfish crackers.  Please don't misinterpret that.  While I'm sure not all stay-at-home moms feel this way, I did.

But the girls are older now -- in grade school -- and now I find myself wanting to slow down time.  My oldest surprised me yesterday by taking a bath all by herself.  She even washed her hair and got all of the soap out!  I'm very proud of her, but that's just one more thing that Mommy's not needed for.

Do I want to quit work and stay home?  Not by a long shot.  I think my kids and I are both happier when I'm working.  You know the saying, "If Momma ain't happy, nobody's happy"?   Yep, that would be me.  I need to work.  I need to feel like the gifts God gave me are being put to the best use and yes, I know my children are gifts, too.  Before we get into that argument, let me just say that I give my kids my very best.  When we're home together, I'm all theirs.  Just look at my house and you'll see proof of that: dusty shelves, messy rooms.  I'd rather play Candyland with them (one more time) than scoot them up to their rooms so I can clean.  The very reason I chose an online master's program was so I wouldn't have to give up time with my kids. 

No, I think I wish what all other parents wish -- for time to slow down so we can hold our babies just a little longer before they grow up.  My working isn't going to change that.