Room for Thought

This is my first blog. It is too soon to call myself a blogger. This is more of an experiment to find out if this is really for me. It is just that there is so much that runs through my mind that needs to be released to make room for more. I have been told that my mind never shuts off, I think too much, I analyze too much...but is this a bad thing, NOT FOR ME!

I have lots of opinions, but I try to be open minded as well. You read my debate, I will read yours and maybe, just maybe, my opinion will change. I always say it is never to late to change and never too late to learn.

Today is a "get to know me" session, so here is my story:

I am married to a wonderfully caring man and the mother to the most beautiful 7 month old girl named Jasmine Iliana. Pregnancy was difficult, but motherhood is amazing. I cannot believe how quickly she has developed, from crawling to pulling her self up. My life revolves around her and I am happy to meet her needs.

But living life also means working, something I also enjoy. I am fortunate, landing a wonderful job and working with wonderful people, while learning my craft on the job. I am a Software Test Engineer, and proud to be one. It allows me to be analytical, something I truly enjoy, while still requiring my technical side, something I never want to lose.

Which brings me to my first debate or opinion. Should mothers work?

In today's world it is virtually impossible for a parents (mother or father) to stay home with the children due to financial obligations. Between mortgage and the basic bills, the cost of living in most states requires both parents to work to help provide a comfortable life style. So, does that hinder a child's development? I don't know, but I do not think it is bad to be a working mother, as long as the time spent together is spent bonding and not plopped down in front of the TV. When I get home we have tickle time, learning time, and tummy time. Tummy time allows me to tend to dinner while she develops her motor skills. The rest of the time is play time. So what about stay at home moms? If I was a multi-millionaire, or at least financially stable enough to be a stay at home mom I would. I wish I didn't have to drop her off at daycare every day, not because of the cost, but because I don't want to miss any of her firsts. But mommy duty also means being responsible and doing what is best for the family. For us that means working, for others that might mean staying home. You are the only one who knows what is best and/or is needed for your family. There is no right or wrong here. There are pros and cons to staying at home and working. Both are fine and dandy to me. I enjoy my job, & I enjoy my time at home...it is a well balanced life style for me!