Next Steps

I had a meeting this week with my work colleagues to discuss my back-to-work plan.  We are 7 1/2 months into the 12 month maternity leave I get.  That leaves me 4 1/2 months to go. 

When I went into my meeting, I really had no idea what I was going to say.  I was feeling so mixed about going back to work.  If we didn't have to worry about finances, I would love to stay at home with the boys, especially at this time in their lives.  But finances are a concern.  Also, I spent nearly 7 years of my life working towards a degree, and still have a student loan to payoff, so it seems silly not to actually go back to work.  I had begun to establish myself in the community as a counsellor before I went on bedrest, and I would have to start back at square one if I waited too long.  Plus, I really do have an awesome job lined up.  My colleagues are wonderful.  They want me to be on their team and are helping me become established as a new counsellor.  They are willing to offer me a gradual re-entry to work, and letting me choose my own days/hours and work as much or little as I want at the beginning.  Plus they gave me a substantial pay raise to make it worthwhile for me to work.  It really doesn't get better than that. 

So, I will be returning to work in the fall.  I think it will be good for me.  But in many ways I just don't want to. 

I love this time at home with my boys!  I love our daily routine.  I love being there for every milestone, and every feeding (well mostly), and watching them grow day by day.  I know I won't miss out by being out of the home a few days a week, but still.  This is such a special time and I want to treasure every moment. 

It's going to be a good summer.  I'm so excited to make the most of it.