Mom to Tatum
Credentialing Coordinator
Length of maternity leave: 8 months
Childcare: Daycare
What did you struggle with most about returning to work after having your kids?
I struggled with doubting if I would ever learn how to balance mom life, work life and wife life. I felt like my daughter wouldn't love me as much because I was leaving her with a stranger for 8+ hours a day when all she was used to for the past 8 months was mommy.
What do you find difficult about being a working parent?
The never ending to-do list. From the time I turn my alarm off and wake up in the morning until the time I lay my head back down on the pillow to do it all over again the next day, my mind is constantly thinking "what's next?". Whether it be returning voicemails at work or fixing lunches for the next day.
What do you enjoy about being a working parent?
I have more patience with my daughter because I cherish the time that I have with her more. The week is filled with routine, but on the weekends we let our hair down, plan adventures and bedtime is pushed back a little bit because I can truly lose myself in the fun of just being with her and my husband.
After being back at work for some time, have your views about career and family changed?
Absolutely. I used to believe that the only way that I could have a healthy and happy family was if I was a SAHM. That has proven to be completely false over the past year. I truly believe that coming to back to work has enriched my little family's life not only financially but emotionally as well.
Knowing what you know now, what’s one thing you wish you could go back in time and tell yourself as you were preparing to return to work or getting ramped up in your role?
You got this, mama. God has given you strength that you don't even know about just yet. But, just you wait and see. You got this.
What did you choose for childcare, and how has it been for your family?
In-home daycare
Pros - My childcare provider is amazing. When I go to pick my daughter up, I can tell she's excited to see me, but she's not quite ready to leave her friends just yet. It truly warms my heart that her day is still filled with love and laughter.
Cons - The commute adds around 25 more minutes to our routine.
If you are a new mama & preparing to go back to work, it's OKAY to feel scared, anxious, nervous. Be gentle with yourself. One day you'll look up and realize that you're really doing the dang thing! Your babies will be happy, you will have found balance & you'll wonder what life was even like before.