I cannot believe I'm approaching one year since my 'big move' to work-at-home mama. The last 12 months have absolutely flown by, and yet I feel as though many more 'aha moments' were captured as a result. It obviously suits our family, as I'm now 26 weeks pregnant with a little man who 'ninja turtles' my belly all day and night, apparently anxious to arrive early and meet his siblings. I've learned so much about myself, my kids and my husband as a result.
First up, let me share my thoughts as the know-it-all at Hummingbird Communications...
One year of freelancing, it feels like a bit of a marathon. No one warned me how difficult freelancing would be! Recall that feeling of beginning a new job and attempting to learn the culture, social norms and communication style of your peers and superiors. It's exhausting right? Well lucky me, I've had to do it about six times over this last year. Ha!
While I shine bright gold on the true colours personality scale, I'm also a strong blue - highly tuned to the emotions of others. As a result, I've often found myself struggling to understand the nuances of emails from clients more so than necessary. As most of my work takes place virtually, it can be difficult to go lengthy periods of time between face-to-face communications. I've learned to ask for clarification and request additional background information in order to best serve my clients.
Freelancing also requires intense discipline. I knew this, but I still struggle to sit down at 8pm to 'work' after 'working' all day with my kids. The most difficult times are on weekends... I have to visualize myself duct-taped to the desk just to meet deadlines... and you would too, if your kiddos were playing spy agents around your PC and screaming and fighting with each other in the same room (or one room above or below you). Ear plugs are my friend.
My relationship with my kids is stronger, and more meaningful than ever. Not to suggest career moms have any less a relationship with their kids - kudos to each and every one of you for balancing both worlds - but for our family, this was the only way. I shudder to think of where we'd be if I hadn't spoken up and had an honest, frank discussion with my hubby. Our family is fiercely loving, enormously joyful and man oh man, we are busy! I feel blessed to see N take giant leaps in his literacy skills right in front of my eyes. I send prayers of thanks for witnessing B's incredible speech development. I LOVE THESE KIDS. And I love being home with them.
Most of all, this last year has taught me that without a doubt, without the tinest second thought, my hubby is the absolute perfect partner and best friend I could ever ask for. He supports my work, my parenting decisions and reminds me when its time to take a break. He lives and breathes for our kids, and his love for me is written all over his face. I love him and couldn't do this without him.
This summer will present challenges for us that we've never experienced... a third child, our first newborn experience without the support of maternity benefits... however I know we're still in the right place, the right space, to make this possible.
"Act, as if everything depended upon you. And pray, as if everything depended upon God."
Off to the races folks...
This blog was created in 2011 to capture my very personal journey of leaving full time work to become a work-at-home mother of three beautiful children. Naturally, this space has morphed into a place of personal reflection, celebration and sometimes even sadness. I’ve written about childhood cancer, food allergy and anaphylaxis, grief, marriage, friendship, parenting and everything in between, all with a growing sense of mindfulness and gratitude. Please, grab a cup of tea and stay awhile.
