Fall Break and Maternity Leave

Today was fall break at Clemson University. This meant all the student's headed out of town Friday, leaving our town quiet and peaceful. I spent the day piddling around the house, slowly tackling my to do list and shopping with Skye. After leisurely enjoying time with my husband, I headed up to work. I was the only one in the building (Fall Break is also for faculty) and settled down in front of the computer to put in a few hours. I was then I realized I am really looking forward to maternity leave. Really, really looking forward to maternity leave.

I have been having the "working mother" debate with myself over these past few months trying to rationalize my feelings. I have always worked. And most of the time, I've liked it. I like being independent, knowing where my paycheck is coming from, and having the freedom allowed a woman by working. But lately the alarm clock has been my enemy.

Funny how things change once you add a child to the picture. I can't image leaving little miss P-nut in day care, although I know many children survive just fine in day care. On the other hand, I very nervous about staying home 24-7. I seem to be at the point where too many women are stuck at these days. Six weeks is all that is allowed for maternity leave. Plus because I have not worked at the University very long, I will need to pay for my insurance during my time off and am not eligible for any pay. So what is a woman to do? Go back to work full-time, ensuring security while entrusting her child to strangers? Or quit, stay home full time, and run the risk of never being able to complete a full sentence with an adult again?

Somewhere there is a happy medium. At some point in my life I will be able to slow down and finish cleaning out a room. Until I will enjoy what little time I have with my hubby and relish the kicking that takes place in my belly.