44 Weeks—The 21st Century Mother

I know I’m not the first woman to have these issues and I certainly won’t be the last. Chances are that before we know it, the stay-at-home mom will be extinct (atleast the way we know it). I work part-time and my 10 month-old goes to Mother’s Day Out 3 days a week. Lately, it’s more like 1 day a week because he’s been consistently ill. The latest is a stomach virus that is single-handedly keeping the baby wipe industry in business (you get the picture).

Between taking care of my sick baby, trying to get work done, and everyday miscellaneous’ somethings gotta give. Well isn’t this where being a working mother gets tricky? I feel guilt for being on the computer while my baby is looking at me with those “I just want you to hold me Momma” eyes, I feel guilt for not being in the office, and I feel guilt for my husband having to go get dinner every night because we only have hummus and pickles in the fridge. Guilt, guilt, guilt.

The 21st Century mother is expected to do it all. Did we want this? Yes. Did we fight for this? Yes. Did we know it was going to be this hard? I’m not sure.

I could probably stay home if I wanted to, but I want to work, I need to work. Those hours in the office with adults and intellectual stimulation make me a better mom. Plus, my son loves the social interaction at MDO. Our time apart is good for both of us.

I suppose my bottom line is that with all great movements, “Women’s Lib” did not come without its downside. Like when your baby is sick and needs your constant attention.