Career Changes

I have recently retired, at the grand old age of 34, from my career in education to focus more on my family and writing. There's lots going on, family-wise, that is easier to handle when I am home, and I am fortunate to be in a position to make this decision. To be clear, I didn't leave my job to become a writer. I left my job to become a stay-at-home mom, which happens to give me plenty of time to write.

I loved my job, and I think I was good at it. I loved the school, quirks and all. I loved the kids I worked with. I prayed for and worried about them, and rejoiced at victories both large and small. The families were supportive, friendly and a pleasure to work with. My co-workers were funny, collaborative, and inspiring educators doing brilliant things in their classrooms on a regular basis. I miss everybody. It feels weird not to go there every day.

The only job that I cannot be easily replaced in is my primary function: motherhood. I love being a mother and a wife. I have to accept the reality that I have a son with special needs who requires special care. I have a husband with a demanding career, and aging parents who are not able to help out as much as they used to. I need to be here, I need to be home taking care of everybody.

In between rounds of laundry, I am also writing- vigorously, consistently and passionately. If it works out, I will float 12 inches in the air with happiness.  I would still be writing, even if no one ever sees it. I want to tell these stories that live in my brain.

I'm not sure what is in store for me. Slowing down seems to be working pretty well so far, though. We're all eating better, the house is cleaner and I'm much more relaxed. As hard of a decision as this was, I think it was the right thing to do.