Conflicted! Venting! and Need help. kinda long...

RachelW06

So, I've been a SAHM for about a year b/c of moving w/military and I wanted to be home with Henry. We've finally settled, and I started working PT again. I like getting out of the house and the $$ is good. I miss Henry like mad when I'm away and feel a little guilty about being out there. We don't "need" the money (it's nice to have and makes life a lot easier) but we are lucky that our bills are small. I'd like to work a little more since #2 is on the way and we have some home repairs that need to be done soon.  Anyway, today I got a call from a resume I posted before I found out I was pregnant for a Director of Clinical Operations position. It would be such a great opportunity for me and my career outside my "mommy" career. I love being a mom and wouldn't trade one minute I have spent at home with DS, but I'm considering it...I think. I'm worried about leaving my little man, and #2 when he/she comes along as I wouldn't be able to stop work again for a long period of time (other than the 6wks). Our DC situation isn't bad. DH is home some days during the day b/c of his crazy work schedule... so the little ones will at least have one of us for some of the time and on the weekends. I just don't know what to do. I feel selfish for thinking about my career and the woman I used to be before being a mom. But at the same time, I feel like I need to take care of me too. I just don't want the kids to ever feel cheated or like they didn't rate. No that's not what I mean. I don't want them to think I chose my job over them. Argh! DH simply says, "do what makes you happy". I would like to clone myself and be in two places at once!

I'd love some input. Be gentle. The hormones are not helping... Thanks. 

ali-1411

Go for the job - its not like you have to commit to it forever!  If you decide you don't like working FT you can give your notice.  But I think you'll always regret it if you don't try.

Your kids will not suffer if you work.  My son has always been a daycare kid, but since I've been on maternity leave he comes home from school on the bus everyday, and you know what?  He's bored and asking me when I'm going back to work so he can go see his friends at daycare again

MrsSledge

I say go for the job. For me, work provides a balance, and your kids will be better off by having a mom that is happy.

jen5-03

Apply for the job. You might get an offer, you might not. You'll wonder about it for a long time if you don't even try.

If you do get an offer, negotiate for 12 weeks maternity leave. Or 6 weeks leave and 6 weeks reduced hours. Or maybe you'll decide to turn down the offer, but I think you should at least try for it.

FWIW, my mom always worked a fulltime professional job, and I never felt that I "didn't rate" or slighted at all. Kids are very adaptable and accepting of whatever their day-to-day reality is.