SAHM

Stay-at-home-mom or SAHM: my job title for the last year. One year ago today... I walked out of the paid working world. That seems almost unreal to me. It doesn't seem like a year ago, and yet working at the church feels like decades ago. There are pros and cons to this arrangement - as there are with most anything - and I thought I would share the few that come to mind... I am sure some will agree and some will disagree, but this is only my humble opinion!

PROS
1. Watching my son grow up - experiencing him learn about his world and getting to do most of the "firsts" with him (this is actually probably #1-30!)
2. Not having to be presentable every day (I do shower, but I don't always do hair & makeup) -and my wardrobe is always comfortable!
3. Freedom to visit with friends
4. Being able to shop while children are at school and adults are working
5. Freedom to help with things at church or other such needs
6. Learning to enjoy time by myself and the quiet
7. Being able to nap if I so need
8. Makes breastfeeding easier
9. We can take vacation whenever we desire
10. Being challenged to think outside the box to stimulate my child (and myself)

CONS
1. Not getting paid
2. Not having a real excuse not to cook dinner
3. Not having a real excuse when the house does get out of order or dirty
4. I've lost some motivation I used to have - I can now waste time like the best of them
5. It can get lonely
6. Little things around the house now bug me
7. Many days seem just like the one before
8. Fewer conversations with adults - especially those not centering around children
9. Not getting paid
10. Not getting paid

I decided to limit each list to 10 because I am sure I could go on and on. I love my new title and the responsibilities that come with it; and I am humbly grateful that I get to stay home. I am thankful for sacrifices made, but mainly for a husband who feels as strongly, if not more so, about me being home as I do.