So I've been a SAHM for 6 months now, although I was on maternity leave for the year before that. I absolutely love it, would not change it for the world and feel incredibly lucky to be able to do it. Sometimes I think back to 2 years ago when I was juggling work, a toddler, housework, etc, and I realise now just how stressed and unhappy I was. Obviously, I had some great things in my life, and it wasn't all bad by any means, but I hated never having enough time, never being able to give 100% to anything, always feeling stretched and compromised.
Now that's all changed and I love being home with the kids, feeling as though I have time to really appreciate them. It sounds silly, I feel as though I can breathe now, whereas before I was gasping for air. When I think of all the cuddles and laughs and tiny little moments I'd miss if I was working, I never for one moment wish I was back there.
But...I do sometimes wonder about other people's perceptions. Sometimes, when I'm asked what I do, I feel a bit inadequate saying I'm "just" a mum. I often lead with, "well, I used to be a teacher, but now..." because that makes me feel a bit more valid as a person. I wonder whether people see value in what I do, at home with the kids. Yes, a lot of it is mundane: housework, picking up toys 1000 times a day, ferrying Jamie to preschool and back. But I do also feel there is huge value in me just being there for them, spending time with them and listening to them.
Anyway, as I said, I do love it and hope I can continue to be a SAHM for a good while longer.
