It's Official!

It's official, I have tendered my resignation and am officially retired from finance for the moment. In California you have almost five months of job protection for maternity. It turns out five months just wasn't enough. Honestly, I have no idea how moms who have to go back to work when their little ones are just six weeks old handle it. At six weeks they are still just a little bean and you are just starting to get to know them. Fortunately, I will have the blessing and opportunity to be what I like to call a "Professional Mom". Thanks Jason!

Initially, I felt guilty not going back to work after such a long absence but it turns out it was fairly easy to replace me as demonstrated by the photos above.

When I announced to my family I would be making this choice I received one response in particular that I thought really spoke to what it means to be a Professional Mom.

My Aunt Julie responded to my email with the following:

"Congratulations! But just a warning, this will be the hardest job you'll ever have. The hours are inconsistent and you are always on call. The paycheck is not so big, however, it does have great perks on occasion- smiles and hugs. Just a warning, don't expect to hear you child or teenager say, "Thanks so much for providing me with structure and consequences to help me be a better person." It sounds more like "You're a mean mom! I'm calling Dad!" Or the ever popular, "Things have changed since you were my age." Then you realize things are almost exactly the same, even from your parents time, the only thing that has changed is "your" perspective. And all this after all the books you read and classes you have taken to be the perfect mother. But, never give up because in the end, and I'm not sure when that will be, the payout is awesome! Just keep praying, trying and enjoying the moments."

My Aunt Julie has raised some amazing children, I can only hope I will do half so well.

I have no idea what I'm doing so please keep the advice coming!