Lately, I love when people ask me what I do.  I know it sounds crazy, but I love talking about being at home with the boys.  When I was in the Army full time, it broke my heart to count the number of hours I was away from Bubba.  I remember staring at my work computer screen while I reasoned that 24 hours in a day minus night-time sleep, minus the morning nap, and minus the afternoon nap… I was only missing a few hours of mom-time, right?  It was hard for me to tell other moms that I was only able to spend a few hours a day with my kiddo.

Now I can’t wait to tell people about it.  When someone asks, “What do you do?” I’m so excited to share my story. I really loved the Army and still do once a month in the National Guard, but leaving it was the best decision I’ve made so far.  Imagine my surprise when I realized some stay-home-mamas feel self-conscious, guilty, even embarrassed that they are “just moms.” I’ve listened to women give excuses why they aren’t working outside of the home as if working as a mom isn’t a real job.

I was recently offered a job to go back to the full time Army again.  I didn’t hesitate in my answer.  ”No, thanks.  I have a full time job now.”  Sure, I don’t get a check every week for the number of dirty diapers I’ve changed or a progress report on my ability to weather toddler tantrums.  Instead I’m paid in kisses and really sticky hugs.  My progress report is my collection of honest statements from Bubba (“You’re my best friend, Mommy” or “Take a nap? You’re not my best friend, Mommy”).

My job as a mom definitely isn’t as publicly recognized as being an Army soldier, but I think it is just as important.  Maybe I should start telling every mom I see, “Thanks for your service” as I would a soldier in uniform.  I’ve learned so much this year, including the fact that my boys need me much more than the Army ever did.  I’ve been called to stay at home with my sons.  I’m just a mom and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

© 2009, FROM MILITARY TO MOM. All rights reserved.

Related posts:

1. Do Working Moms Have It All?

2 Responses to “Just a Mom”

1. KC Rhon says:

   October 6, 2009 at 4:07 pm

   Awesome Alyssa! Thank you for your service! It is really the most important job and yet, we often down play it because it doesn’t “look” like a “real” job. What a lie! Thanks for reminding me of this today!
2. La Donna says:

   October 6, 2009 at 5:47 pm

   Thanks for your service, Sis!