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s a working mom, it’s been a delicate balance to juggle work and home every day (http://bit.ly/1odULFX). I’ve admired stay at home moms; raising children and caring for your home, exclusively, is a tough task indeed.
s a working mom, it’s been a delicate balance to juggle work and home every day (http://bit.ly/1odULFX). I’ve admired stay at home moms; raising children and caring for your home, exclusively, is a tough task indeed.Like many of you, I’m at the point in my life where my family needs me home. Recently, were blessed to have another child. With the addition of our daughter, it became clear, that each family member had their own unique needs that weren’t being met. In addition, with my husband’s growing practice, it became harder to justify each of us spending less and less time with our family. After all, what’s it all for, if not for family? As part-time work was unavailable, we discussed our options…continue to work or stay at home.
The decision to stay home was a difficult one for may reasons. I had practiced at the same site for 12.5 years. I have attachments to many of the families I’ve helped, even forming friendships along the way. I’ve seen many children grow up into lovely young ladies and men. Undoubtedly, I would miss them. In addition, being a one income home would mean many changes were in order. Such a big life change required close scrutiny of finances, creating a detailed household budget, & most of all the cooperation of each member of our little family. Ultimately, I came to the conclusion that I need to pause my career, placing a priority on my family. And so, for now, I’m a stay at home mom.
The transition from being a full-time Pediatrician to a homemaker is exceedingly difficult, as I imagine it would be for any working mother. It’s a huge adjustment to a very different life. I miss the atmosphere in a pediatric office; I sorely miss the spirit of the children. In addition, being a homemaker is hard work. While it is true that the demands of the office and hospital are no longer present, it is also true that the personal demands of home life are much more than those at work. After all, there is an end to a work day. However, there’s never an end to the work at home. As many of you homemakers know, being a stay at home mom is a seemingly never-ending unappreciated and undervalued job. There’s lots of repetition of cooking, cleaning, caring, organizing, and being supportive of each family member, while somehow learning and trying to find time for yourself.
On the other hand being a stay at home mom has its great joys. I’m happy to know that I am here for my husband, our children, and our home life. For the first time, I am able to dedicate myself completely to family and home. At the end of the day, I must say that it feels pretty darn good to set aside my doctor’s hat for a while and be a mommy, a wife, and take care of myself. Staying at home is difficult, but it is very rewarding and fulfilling.
Here are some helpful articles about being a stay at home mom (http://www.scarymommy.com/becoming-a-stay-at-home-mom) and a stay at home dad (http://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/family-dynamics/types-of-families/Pages/Stay-At-Home-Dads.aspx).
Hey Dr. Silva–
I stumbled on your blog back when we were first looking for a pediatrician for Abby. I came looking for it specifically when I called to make an appointment with you and learned that you’d decided to be a SAHM. First, to say congratulations on the birth of your daughter…and second, to welcome you to the club.
I’m not a SAHM mom much anymore–I returned to teaching–but I did make that change recently after years of being home. No matter the type of mothering, being a Mother is hard work. Give yourself a break once in a while. 🙂
You will be missed at the office, that is more than true. But I promise, you’ll never regret the moments spent with your daughter while she’s small. And should you like, please feel free to email/call me sometime. Best wishes!
Kimberly Myers (Abriella’s Mom)
Thank you Kimberly. I appreciate the support 🙂 You are so very kind! It is a big adjustment. It’s only a been a few months. She’s already changed & grown so much. Every week, there’s new milestones that I’m savoring. Oddly enough, the day goes by slowly and quickly all at the same time! I’m sure you know what I mean 🙂 So happy for you that you returned to teaching. You enjoyed your family home time as a SAHM. Now, you can enjoy your life as a teacher once again. Those kids (as well as your own) are lucky to have you!