love both of my jobs

BrinkerN

I love, love, LOVE being a mommy!  But I also love my job as a 6th grade reading teacher.

I always thought I'd be a SAHM, but the job I have is fabulous-184 days a year, work 7-3:30, & I can control how much work I have to take home in the evenings...I know that if I were to SAH that it would be hard to get another teaching job (I've taught more than 5 years and have my masters-qualities that most district will not hire on). 

This schedule will be perfect once she's in school, but I feel guilty when I come home and only get 2-4 hours with her. 

 Anyone else struggle with the decision to work or SAH?  How do you deal?

AlisaS

It sounds like you have a great situation. If you are happy, your daughter will be happy.

I am happy. That is how I "deal".

ka2005

If you are a teacher, do you get summers off?  So you get to be SAH for part of the year to satisy the urge.  I think if you love your job you can push through this time and see the benefits,  I always tell myself, she won't remember that I wasn't the one playing patty cake but she will remember if I don't make it to a softball game or dance class......

BrinkerN

PERFECT points!!! Thanks soooo much!

SportsLover

I teach also.  My reasons are:

1. I love my job.

2. It satisfies me knowing I am contributing towards my family's future.

3.  Thousands of people would jump on the opportunity to take my job.

4. We have a family-friendly job.

JLSBWG

I truly think that you have the best of both worlds now, particularly because you do love your job. It's great that you have the summers off, school vacations and your work hours are great! It seems like you have much more time with your DD than most of the working mothers have with their children.  I would keep things as they are and just enjoy and appreciate the balance you do have, as it is hard to come by.