Hey Mamas,
2023 was a year of significant milestones, the most precious being the arrival of my wonderful baby boy. Embracing motherhood has brought a new understanding of the daily sacrifices we make as mothers—something often unspoken but deeply felt. Before this new chapter, my passion centered around educating the youth. I dedicated seven fulfilling years as a Middle School teacher, cherishing every moment.
Yes, the teaching profession is undeniably underpaid, yet the joy of imparting life skills and knowledge to my students made it worthwhile. There was a unique bond shared between my students and me, where I aimed to find a balance in our student-teacher relationship. As I pen down these thoughts, I’m still in awe of the fact that I willingly stepped away from my career to embrace the role of a Stay-at-Home-Mom.
Having recently relocated to a new city without family nearby, trusting childcare became iffy. The decision to stay home wasn’t made lightly, but witnessing my son’s daily growth and thriving fills my heart with immense joy. So, why the initial hesitation? It stemmed from my love for independence and the security of financial freedom.
However, I quickly realized that, to ensure the best care for my son, there’s no one better suited than his mommy. Despite the internal struggle, I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything in the world. I am fortunate to be in a position where we can comfortably live in a one-income household. Even if the means weren’t as abundant, I’d still choose him over my career any day. I firmly believe that things align for the greater good, guided by an intentional God. What initially seemed like fear gradually transformed into faith as the writing on the wall became clearer.
Navigating the role of a stay-at-home mom comes with its biggest challenge – the expectation to be available 24/7. There’s no clock-out time; the responsibilities persist. Balancing personal time becomes a challenge as my desire to be fully present for my son takes precedence. I’ve embarked on a path of self-discovery, experiencing a profound transformation as I embrace the newfound identity that motherhood has bestowed upon me.
If you find yourself in a season of transition and contemplating the idea of becoming a stay-at-home mom, it might feel a bit daunting, but I wholeheartedly encourage you to embrace the sacrifice for the sake of your precious little one. The journey may seem uncertain, but rest assured, everything will gradually fall into place. Remember, the moments you invest in your child’s early years are invaluable. Trust the process, and the rewards of witnessing your tiny human’s growth and happiness will be immeasurable.
With Love,
Tookie
