I don’t get the word retirement. To use the prefix “re” should mean “back” or “again” but it is not as if you are tiring again. In fact, retirement would more appropriately be coined as relaxing or reliving if truly trying to capture the spirit of what retirement is meant to be. I mean, generally one who retires has been working through the majority of their existence and so, to re-tire does not seem the appropriate term. And while I have not been burning the midnight oil, I have experienced working outside the home and being a mother in tandem and I think it was more tiring than my next few months may be.
Today is my last day of my contracted position with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Monday, I will be gainfully employed, once again as a full-time stay-at-home Barrett lover and Grin bearer. I am a little anxious/nervous/terrified but I think it will be good. The paycheck will look a little different…after all, what bank is letting you cash in on love these days…and the benefits package has much different verbiage…but regardless, I think the transition could be a smooth one. After a winter of ailments and bugs, the spring will likely feel exhilarating and after a month of working more than full-time hours, my house will enjoy the spiffing and shining.
When Adam and I decided I would stay home post the birth of Barrett, I was fairly frazzled. This time around, I have a better plan in place and a better perspective on stay-at-home parenting. I now know a bit of what it’s like to juggle outside work and fires on the homefront. I now know what I need to do for me to make this work. I am more aware of new ways Barrett can benefit from time with me. I have a sunnier outlook on my career change the second time around.
I will miss my job immensely. I have enjoyed the adult-interaction, the idea of owning projects/details/outcomes. I’ve found new friends and relationships that I will cherish. I have loved feeling the need to take some time for me at least three days of the week. Some call those things selfish. I call them personal preference. I will miss Barrett’s daycare tremendously. The copious amount of artwork he created each day, the reports from teachers confirming that our little Barrett is the bee’s knees, and the chance for him to interact with other children his age. Primrose has been a gem and so we are sad to say goodbye. And of course, I will miss the money. That is plain and simple and needs no further explanation.
I am excited for the opportunity to spend special time with Barrett for Grin enters our gang. I am thrilled about the prospect of preparing the house for our newest peanut. I am pumped to pick up a new hobby {something I’ve told Adam is essential for me if I am going to be at home} and am up for suggestions … right now the plan is either guitar lessons or starting a new blogging adventure. I look forward to fitting fitness {daily walks with my darlings} into my schedule. And I am excited for playdates with my fave at-homers {you all know who you are}.
So, a toast to new adventures and old endeavors. And here’s hoping that this retirement is not tiring…but rather inspiring!
