Unexpected Perks

As of this week, I am now officially working outside of the home. I've recently been hired to write tours at our local history museum. It sounds a lot easier than it actually is-- at least that's what I've come to find out so far.

This is the first time I've been away from my sweet babies for most of the day. Luckily, we have family who is so loving and willing to help us by watching our cuties while we're off in what I now refer to as the "other working world."

The "other" world is not exactly as I thought it'd be. Before starting this job, I was concerned about a plethora of issues I'd be faced with: missing the girlies, not liking someone I had to work with, being frustrated with time constraints, etc. But I have to tell ya, so far so good! I enjoy everyone I work with, the hours are flexible, time isn't as big of an issue as I thought, and most importantly I miss the girls, but it's not too hard to handle (for now).

When I found out I was hired, I had less than 24 hours to prepare for my new lifestyle, thus I didn't dwell too much on the fact that my babes would be out of my care for the next few months-- though I was still concerned that I'd be miserable without them by my side all day.

HOWEVER...

At least for now, I'm actually enjoying the "other" world. It probably helps that I love my work, but in addition to this perk I have discovered what it's like to go to the bathroom or eat whenever I want or need to. (This isn't even a perk I experienced while teaching.) And though I'm faced with new responsibilities and the stress of a new job, I can't help but feel calmer than I have in a long time.

I believe I was ready to take on a new challenge. Not that I have conquered parenting by any means, but I could tell that I was becoming "grouchy" mom and that I needed a healthy change. I think almost anyone would like to try something new once in a while, if not for any other reason than to get out of the rut of their same old routine. To tell you the truth, I'm more relaxed and wwwwwaaaaaayyyyy less frustrated with my day now that I have an opportunity to experience work outside the home. Don't misunderstand me, I miss my babies more and more each hour that I'm away from them, but I am loving the break from home and my new adventure at the museum. Honestly though, I'm sure my opinion would change if this job was permanent and not temporary. The fact that I can reunite with my children as a stay-at-home mom once summer is over, is the best perk of the "other" side. And I must say that I feel like one of luckiest people alive to be able to stay at home with my children, yet also try my hand at work outside of the home and feel so rewarded by both experiences.

P.S. These faces help me get through my day!