Why “just” a stay-at-home mom?!

When I first published my blog a dear friend emailed me with the subject line, “Bada%s MT Stay at Home Mom”.  “Hi Flora, I am excited to watch your adventures of being a stay at home Mom but as a woman who is learning to give herself some credit in life….I think you should consider my title instead! 🙂  There is nothing “just” about being a stay at home Mom. It’s HARD work. Enjoy it, they grow up way too fast!”

I wrote her back and explained: “I couldn’t agree more!  I am actually reclaiming that phrase in a positive light.  For me, it is a huge thing to sacrifice several other career goals and interests to focus “just”on being a full-time mom right now.  For me, the “just” in not a devaluing statement.  It’s about a journey of mindfulness, as I strive to be fully present for the most important job in my world.  I have my Master’s degree in Counseling and built up a successful counseling practice in my community before having kids.  I was even chosen the 2012 “Young Careerist” by the Bozeman Business and Professional Women.

2012 Bozeman BPW "Young Careerist"
2012 Bozeman BPW “Young Careerist”

However, I consciously chose to close my business to be a full-time mom when I had my first child, and now I’m a mom of 2!  For me, it’s a great privilege to be a full-time mom, AND it is a daily challenge to stay committed to being “just” a stay-at-home mom, because it means putting on hold other parts of my identity (for a short while).  Confession #1: I often miss dressing like a grown-up!:-).  Read more of my confessions here.  Anyway, that’s why I picked the name.

Giving a Workshop
Giving a Workshop when I was “Just” focused on my career.

So, I started blogging as a way to help me enjoy my current job a bit more.  I like sharing the things I am doing as a DIY-er, bargain-hunter, and stay-at-home mom, who is inspired by Montessori and Positive Discipline parenting theories.  Hope you’ll join me on the journey!

I would love to hear from YOU: moms/dads/grandparents/caregivers!

Comments

5 responses to “Why “just” a stay-at-home mom?!”

  1. Skinny Latte Mommy Avatar

    Love this! I am a SAHM currently taking night classes to complete my Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling.

  2. Carolyn Minor Avatar
    Carolyn Minor

    Flora,
    Your work inspires me! The stay at home title was hard to swallow. I appreciate you owning and tackling the name head on.
    Much love,
    Carolyn

    1. Flora Avatar
      Flora

      That is so sweet of you Carolyn. You are a wonderful at-home mommy too!

  3. hammersparklechalk Avatar

    Flora – Your blog is so great. I am impressed with your ability to be a present mom everyday.

    1. Flora Avatar
      Flora

      Thanks so much. That is sweet of you. Still a work in progress each day.

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