Mama Monday : Katie from Minivan Diva

Shortly after I started blogging, I came across a blog of a woman who was (at the time) on vacation with a group of women friends in Palm Springs. The post I read is here. I don't know why but she intrigued me.

I wanted to learn more about her story. About her 3 sweet boys. About her life's challenges. And joys.
Her's was one of the first personal blogs I began reading and has always been bookmarked in my favorites. Now that's friendship. 

Please welcome Katie from Minivan Diva with whom I hope to share a mojito one fine day!

blog...bloglovin...pinterest

Do you work outside the home or are you a stay at home mom? What led you to either decision? 

I went back to teaching after our first son, Luke, was born. I was a wreck and was determined to find a way to stay home with him. I worked a 50% contract the following 2 years and then stayed home full-time after that once our 2nd and then 3rd son were born. I didn't want to miss a moment and the cost of daycare was more than my teaching salary!

Did you always see yourself as stay at home mom/career woman? Was it a dream of yours? 

I saw myself as working mom prior to having kids. I just thought I could do both well. I quickly realized that the juggling act was too much for me. I had no problem admitting that the balance was nonexistent. I didn't want my kids to suffer because of my work commitment and I didn't want my students to suffer due to my family commitment. I felt like I was doing teaching and my family an injustice while doing both. Now, I am back to teaching 1st grade. I work where all 3 of my boys go to school. I see them throughout the day and they are in my classroom while I finish up work after school. I also bring home some work and do it while I watch them play outside. The balance has been much easier to find now that they are all in school. I also don't think I could have gone back to work if it was not a teaching position at my kids' school. I don't regret my time at home one bit. That time was precious.

What frustrates you most? What would you change if you could? 

I am frustrated by moms judging one another. Each family has different needs. I also think it is dangerous to assume that every family has the luxury of choosing whether or not the mom works. 

Any words of advice for mama's who are struggling with this decision? 

Go with your heart and make the decision based on your family's needs. Don't be afraid to make drastic changes if you want to stay home. We had to be very creative and frugal at times in order for me to stay home for eight years. Either way, don't let fear guide your decision. Be bold and stand firm as a family given either situation.

The decision to work outside the home or stay home with your children is such a personal one. There is no right answer or right decision but rather, I truly feel each woman must do what is right for her and her family.

I commend each and every mother out there for this. It is not easy.

We are women and man, we're amazing.

Katie, I know how full your hands are. And I'm thankful your heart is just as full and that you made the time to share this with us today. 

see previous Mama Monday interviews:

one

two

three

four