My second baby girl was born in October. As a teacher, I decided to take the rest of the academic year off to spend as much time as I could with my newborn and my 19-month-old. I had every intention of returning to my kindergarten classroom at the start of the next school year.
But, things changed.
As a mom to two little ones only 19 months apart, I started seeing how much busier life was, even while I wasn’t working. I was fortunate that my baby slept well, ate well, and was generally not fussy, because I found that my toddler sought out my attention very often now that the new baby had arrived.
Related: “How to Prepare Your Toddler for a New Sibling“
Related: “The Truth About How I Feel Like I Neglect My Second Child“
With every busy (but wonderful) day that passed, I realized that I didn’t want to miss a single second with them. People tell you all the time that “kids grow up so fast” and that “time goes by so fast” and MAN, they aren’t kidding.
It’s not just that your kids get older, but it’s the things they learn along the way – new skills, words, and concepts.
What I’m getting at is not the mind-blowing fact that my firstborn is already almost 2.5 years old now, but the fact that she can put on her own sandals, knows to reach for my hand before crossing the street, and asks me “How’s your day going, Mama?” at the beginning of lunchtime every day.
Not only do they get physically older, but their expressions, mannerisms, and way of thinking change. I don’t want to miss this.
The decision to stay home with my kids was not a decision I made lightly. I LOVE teaching. I LOVE the people I work with and the town I work in. It’s where my childhood roots are.
But my heart belongs to my kids.
We’re lucky enough to be able to swing it with only my husband’s salary. I won’t lie when I say that only having one income makes me nervous.
But we can adapt.
We can live a little more modestly if it means that I can raise my kids every day.
And for this, I am so thankful. I’m thankful for my husband being on the same page as me, and I’m thankful for him being willing to sacrifice his own time so I can stay home with our girls. I will save expressing how appreciative I am of him for another post. 😊
Related: “How to Plan Fun Surprise Dates (20 New Ideas)“
It’s hard for me to wrap my head around not being a teacher and not being a part of this next academic school year.
But I know I will not regret my decision.
To my kids, I can’t tell you how excited and thankful I am to spend this time with you. Let’s get the party started.
P.S. I’d love to hear from you whether you are a SAHM or not. Whether you are working full-time, part-time, or are home, I want to hear about your personal experience. Feel free to comment below!
