December 14, 2016
Homemaking As A Profession


Dr. Laura:

Twenty-eight years ago, after the birth of our first child, I was laid off from my well-paid, mid-level management job.  I was terrified, because, while I didn't want to leave my new baby in someone else's care, at that time, my income was higher than my husband's.Eventually, I learned to decorate birthday cakes, which I continued to do for twenty-five years.  I was able to decorate cakes after everyone was in bed so I could devote my attention to my young family.  

For the past 28 years, I've applied my management skills to running the household.  I decided to approach motherhood and homemaking as a profession.  I prioritized tasks (but the family came first) and I became an expert bargain shopper and penny pincher.  I kept an orderly, clean house, kept the yard, sewed some of the kids' clothes and all of our drapes and home décor.  I shopped yard sales, fixed up old furniture and constantly compared prices.  We drove used cars.  My husband eventually went into business for himself, and I was available to answer his phone, do his invoicing, and help him support us.  

Our three kids are all grown, and are responsible, caring, delightful people.  We're very proud of them.  My husband is certain that the choices and sacrifices we made to keep me at home were key to who they became.  I am grateful for my life, the husband who encouraged me to stay home, for my kids and for the chance to be the best wife, mom, and homemaker that I could be.  I can look back now and say that I regret NOTHING.  I missed nothing, and no amount of money from a prestigious job could convince me to live my life any differently.

Pam


Posted by Staff at 10:59 AM