(Disclaimer: I am a working Mom and it’s VERY, VERY hard! I am no means perfect, but I try to manage as best as I can with what I have!)
I’m Shannon.ย A Working (Teacher Mommy) to 2 kids ages 7 and 2.ย The best thing about being a Teacher? The summer, of course!!
See my face? It was the last day of school and I always have the BEST smile and jump out of bed SO FAST on the last day of school!! It is the best time of year for me but also the hardest because I know my stay at home gig is not going to last long. I’m thankful to get some time off with my kids and I enjoy each and every second of it. Right now I’m back at school working and it’s very hard to be away from my kids. It’s super hard to see my sweet Mommy friends getting to do fun things like going on class field trips or randomly stopping in and eating lunch with their kiddo. I’m trying to be more positive about my situation and I’ve made a list of the fun aspects of being a working Mom! Listed in random order:
* You can pee alone. This is a biggie. I can go the bathroom and not have my children following me or wanting to come in with me!
* Since we’re gone all day my house can stay fairly tidy.ย We’re also not bored when we’ve home since we’ve been gone all day. My kids love to play when we get home from work/school.
* If needed, you can run a kid free errand at lunch or quickly after work. I’d happily give up my lunch time to have some kid free errand time! I can be super fast!
[bctt tweet=”Skip the Guilt! Advantages of being a Working Mom #momlife #workingmom”]
*You can make a Kid free phone call! This is sort of like the bathroom one but it’s true! I can make phone calls on my way home from work and it’s so peaceful ๐
and probably the best reason of all… absence makes the heart grow fonder. There’s nothing better then seeing those sweet faces after a long day of work!
I’m thankful for wonderful caretakers past and present (and my parents who help out A LOT!). I couldn’t do it without any of these peeps in my life. Special hugs to all the Mommies that work hard in the home and out of the home ๐
UPDATE: At the end of the 2016 school year I decided a I need a change and needed to be with my kids more. I resigned from my full time job and now I teach preschool part time. I’m still using my teaching skills, just on a lower level with sweet 3 year olds. Now that I’m home more I blogged about Advantages of Being a Stay at Home Mom. Come check it out!
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Kristy says
You make some great points. I teach first grade. Going to the bathroom alone is true but it’s almost impossible to get to go when I actually need to. I may get to get alone but not when I want lol. I’m also a little envious of your lunch break. We cant leave. In fact we have to stay in the lunchroom to monitor our kids thanks to budget cuts resulting in the loss of our teacher aids. I do like the optimistic spin you put on working moms. I love my job and I know I’m called to teach but I sure do miss my babies.
Shannon says
Thanks Kristy! It’ is SOOOO hard being a Teacher/Mommy. I can leave for lunch but it is for only 30 minutes so I have to be super fast! There have been years when I was lucky to have lunch/plan time back to back and then every once in awhile I could leave for a quick errand. Hugs to you. It is HARD work!
Leilani says
Kudos to you! Maybe it’s not true for everyone, but working moms I know have given their kids the courage to get out there and work. I LOVED that my momma stayed home but I wanted to stay there with her. I didn’t want to spread my wings and find a job. Meanwhile, working mom friends were getting jobs. Maybe this was just a personal struggle for me?
Linda says
All of this is so true, Shannon! My guys are older now, but I used to wish for a time when I could go to the bathroom alone. Seriously, for about three years that just did not happen for me! It is so hard being away all day, but those little moments of vacation, summertime, or just a regular old night where you realize how nice it is to have your kids around you really make up for the time you’re away. Oh, and also being on the phone alone. Even into their teen years that one was a challenge!
Julie says
This is a cute post, such lovely photos ๐ YES, being a new working mom is hard as we’re pulled in so many directions, but it is nice to be able to focus on work at work and let my baby have experience being around other people.
bellybytes says
Hey I am a stay at home who has recently graduated t being a granny who takes care of the kids while their mother (my daughter)is at work. Being a mom is tough work doubly so when you work outside the house. I salute you and admire your energy which I am sure is like a phone at the end of the day, waiting to get recharged when you see those darling faces!
Shannon says
I’m a SAHM – what I wouldn’t have done for those times to talk on the phone or use the bathroom by myself! The kids are getting a bit older now so I have afternoon freedom while my youngest is at pre-k! This is my first year with time to myself and it is weird lol! Great spin you put on being a working mom ๐
Shannon says
That’s awesome to have some time alone now!! Enjoy it!
Crystal Green says
These are some cute and very REAL reasons to enjoy being a working mom. I miss working outside the home on some days. I have tried to find a new job several times, but it never has come to pass. I believe that is my sign that I need to stay a work-at-home mom.
Shannon says
You are a working from home Mom! You do work very hard too! IT’s hard work!
Stacy says
Bloom where you are planted! I love your positive attitude. I do envy you being able to make a phone call and go potty by yourself. ๐
Shannon says
I love what you said “Bloom where you are planted!” That’s an awesome thing to remember!!
Laura says
Your family is adorable! I love your list of fun aspects, my kids are both in school this year and I’m learning that adult time is such a privilege. I actually went out to lunch and shopping by myself and LOVED every minute of it this week! It really comes down to the simple things, good for you being able to juggle work, family and me time!
Shannon says
So nice, right?!! Shopping by yourself is awesome!!!
Suzanna says
I too am a working mom, so I appreciate your points (especially getting to pee by yourself)! Motherhood is hard and rewarding whether you work in the home or outside of it. I hope all mothers get to make the choices that are best for them and their families!
Shannon says
You’re so right! It is very hard. I only work because right now I have to for my family ๐ I hope one day I don’t have to but for now I do. Just trying to stay positive ๐
Lisa/Syncopated Mama says
I stopped teaching a couple years ago to stay home with our daughter when she was born and I have definitely had days when she (or even my husband) was driving me crazy and all I could think of was, “gosh, things would be SO much easier if I just went back to work!” for many of the reasons you list here. Of course, I don’t truly believe that would be easier and I don’t regret this decision for a minute, but sometimes it seems life would be so much simpler if I could go back.
Shannon says
You’re so lucky! I hope I can stay home one day too. I can dream, right?!!
Shelah says
You have some great examples of the positive aspects of being a working mom. I have two more – when the children leave the home you won’t feel like your whole life walked out the door and more importantly you are such a great role model for your kids. It can be exhausting though. ๐
Shannon says
That’s true! I will say, since I’ve had to leave them a lot it’s not as hard anymore. It used to be so hard!!
Pam says
Good for you to put a positive spin on it! I have always been a WAHM, and even though I’m home, when the kids were younger they did go to preschool 2.5 days a week – and the Grandma’s watched them the rest of the time. It is easier now that they are in school!
Shannon says
Sounds like you have a good support system! That is important!
Erin says
You are right, being a working mom is hard, but it does have its advantages. Focusing on them helps make it easier. Thanks for pointing them out!
Shannon says
Trying to stay positive!
Leila says
I love this post! I did a post that was “I’m not a stay at home parent and that’s okay”. I am not made to be a stay at home mom. I love my freedom working. There are the joys of working and the joys of staying home, but I know that I need my work time to re-energize myself!
Shannon says
Thanks for sharing! I’ll have to check out your post too!
Crystal says
My mom was a teacher for 28 years and just recently retired. I remember as a child many summer days that she would take us to do fun things. We used to pack a picnic and go to the park. Looking back those are the best memories of my childhood and something I hope to be able to do with my children some day.
Shannon says
How sweet! I bet she was/is an awesome Mom!!
Jennifer Corter says
It IS nice to pee alone every once in a while, isn’t it? LOL
And a kid-free phone call just once? That would be heaven!
Shannon says
YES! It’s amazing to have 2 seconds of quiet time!!
Jeana Walz, CAP says
I love your list! Those things are so important although they may not seem it to those without kids. Glad you are enjoying your kiddos and those small moments of alone time. Joy!
Shannon says
Thank you! It’s hard work but that’s okay ๐
Rachel says
You make some great points that bring a smile to my face. There is things like you say going to the toilet, errands and phone calls that can be done at a fast past without your little miracles around. But the best bet is seeing them after a day and really appreciating that time. That is wonderful. It is not because it is routine, but it is a time where you all truly enjoy one another. Great post. Thank you.
Rachel.
Shannon says
Thanks Rachel! It is hard to be away but I’m trying to make the best of it!
ChristyK says
I can’t imagine working while being a mom, but I understand that sometimes it is a necessary evil. Kudos to you for being so brave and doing what is best for you and your family! Some friends of mine are teachers as well, and I appreciate that line of work very much. What a great idea to list the different pros of being a working mom. ๐
Shannon says
Thanks Christy! I’m trying to stay positive!
bex stark says
my husband and I are starting our family so I love to read these posts to see everyone’s side of things. my mom was a working mom, and I wonder how she did it all!
Shannon says
Good luck! Moms have it hard but it is all worth it!
Millie says
I enjoy being a working mom, though sometimes it can get really hard and exhausting. However, I really do love seeing my son in the evening and playing around and just enjoying the time we are together.
Shannon says
It can be very hard. Hugs to you!
Tina says
What a great way to stay positive. Great post ๐
Shannon says
Thanks Tina ๐
Brittney Minor says
Loved this post. I am currently a mom to a 1st and 2nd grader and I am in the process of getting my teaching credential! Thanks for the inspiration!
Shannon says
Good luck to you!!! It’s a great schedule to have with kids in school!
Myriam says
Some great reasons but personally I would love to be a stay at home mom and not have to work full time outside the home. Perhaps because I’ve always held a full time job even before becoming a mother and would give it up all up in a split second to be home and have the flexibility to do many more things with them. It is what it is for now but you have a great job as well – a teacher – to be commended. And summer off- that’s a Huge plus.
Shannon says
I would LOVE to be home full time as well! Maybe some day ๐
Betsy says
Haha – great list!! Way to be positive. I don’t think I could be a teacher and a mom. Actually, I was a full time teacher until I got married, then switched to tutoring and teaching piano, and now that I’ve had my second kid (6 months old) I just a stay at home mommy with an ambition to be a doula! (Plus this year I’m having fun doing totschool with my oldest.) I hope you enjoy teaching this school year!!
Shannon says
It’s SO hard!!! Being a teacher is hard enough and then coming home to kids can be very challenging. I’m usually totally spent by the time I get home!
TJ says
You make a lot of great points. I miss a lot of these things when I worked a corp job. Having been a work from home mom for 2 years now I must say after finding my stride I wouldn’t trade it for the world.
Shannon says
That’s great! Lucky you!!
Miranda says
I agree with all of your points and sometimes I envy those who are able to do those things-all except the last one that absence makes the heart grow fonder. Sure, this may be true about short times away, but I am so blessed to be able to be that constant in my child’s life and to see them meet every milestone and for them to always know I am there. Not saying that you aren’t any of those either, just saying that both working and stay at home moms have their perks and disadvantages and there are sacrifices to be made either way.
Shannon says
Very true. Honestly I’d give anything to be at home full time. It’s just not possible right now ๐ Maybe someday!
Haley says
I recently became a work from home and mom. I miss working in the public! Don’t get me wrong I love my kids, but the break was awesome. Having adult conversation was the best part ever for me.
Shannon says
That’s true. Congrats on being able to work from home! I hope I can too some day ๐
Ronni at The Screenwriter's Wife says
Not gonna lie, I often wish I worked out of the home for all the reasons you listed above too. ๐
Shannon says
Ha! I wish I could work full time in the home ๐ The grass is always greener…. ๐
Heather says
I have often thought about going back to work or maybe even school and how that would work since I also want to homeschool my kids. Being a mom you have to make many choices and sometimes it takes awhile to figure out which one will be right for the family, at least that’s where I’m at right now. Great post!
Erin - American Mom in England says
I’m sure your kids adore their summers with you. My mother taught middle school mathematics when I was growing up and I absolutely loved getting to spend the summers with her.
I’m also with you on doing those little things, like peeing & making phone calls on your own.
Lisa says
I taught for seven years before being able to transition to home, and I enjoyed your post. Summers were the best!
Great job having a positive outlook–I’m sure that will rub off on your kids, and teach them to make the best out of every situation!
Catrina says
Definitely advantages to both. The one awful thing about being a working mom is finding care! It’s almost as frustrating as online dating was!
Lerie says
How lucky you are! ๐ I’m happy to hear that you are enjoying and can see the positive side of being a working mom. That’s the spirit of contentment. Thanks for sharing it made me laugh and smile.
Melissa Vera says
I love your outlook on things. Up until a few years ago all of my kids went to the same school that I taught at so yea so much for alone time.
Monica says
This was really cute. ๐ I am a stay at home mommy of five and right now only two are in school. And I never get to pee alone! Thaks for sharing this.
Shannon says
Oh you are a busy bee then! I can’t imagine ๐
Missy says
Shannon – thank you for sharing your story with us. It’s always great to read about all types of moms; single, working, homeschooling, etc. I’ve learned a lot from so many bloggers by simply sharing their stories. It sounds like you’re a great teacher and mommy – kudos! for doing both and sharing it with us.
Shannon says
Thank you so much for your kind words ๐
Rebecca says
I have been both a working mom and a SAHM. Right now I homeschool during the day and work part-time from home at night. I think both roles are equally hard. I love how you are focusing on the positives. I forgot what it is like to pee in private. Or to take a call without hearing “Mom, mom, mom what are you doing? Mom she is touching me! or she is breathing my air!” I swear it only happens the moment I get on the phone!
Shannon says
Oh that’s hard!!! You are very busy!
Marie says
Ah yes, my days of a clean house ended the day I stopped working outside the home. And since we homeschool there are always piles of papers and books. It’s a lived in house. Loved your post. You have a great attitude and I can see your love for your kids in your words and photos.
C. Lee Reed says
I agree with your list and would like to add. On the drive to work, I get to catch up on all my books on CD and podcasts. Wouldn’t have that time sitting at home.
Nikki Rae says
I love having adult conversations without using code words or hushed tones.
Tina@TreasuredTidbits says
I am a stay at home mom of two teenage girls who are at home all day as well due to physical challenges and I absolutely agree with all your points.
We joke at our house that a trip to the doctor alone is a vacation for me but it is true! My recent mammogram and biopsy were the first time in years I had been completely alone.
My children are teens but I have to make certain someone in town is available to help them at a moments notice (my daughter stops breathing and can begin seizing with no warning) and prep food drinks and anything else they may need while I am gone. I post similar comments on my facebook page because it is soo true and even though other parents may think it they are too afraid to say it. ๐
Shannon says
So true, I don’t mind going to the dentist because it’s a time when I’m kid free ๐