I don’t know if you ever wrestle with this, but I do: the stay at home mom vs working mom question.
Some women don’t have the choice—financial realities make the decision for them. Others are firmly committed to being home full-time, and that’s beautiful. But for some of us… well, we’re stuck in this constant back-and-forth of asking, what’s best for me, my kids, and our family right now?
My Stay-at-Home Mom Dream
I often catch myself dreaming of the stay-at-home life. Waking up to the sound of roosters, taking a peaceful 2-mile walk before the girls wake up. Mornings filled with sourdough rising on the counter (a sourdough starter kit would make it so easy) and homemade Greek yogurt in the fridge (this yogurt maker is on my wish list). Library hour with the girls, and impromptu picnics in the sunshine with our well-loved picnic blanket – we keep it in the car and use it all the time whenever the mood strikes. I imagine being the room helper on Tuesdays and capturing those everyday, ordinary moments for the blog.
When I write that out, it almost feels like a vision board of my heart. A life I’d love to live someday.
The Working Mom Reality
But if I’m being honest, I know me. I’d probably hit snooze too many mornings, stay in my pajamas longer than I should, eat my way through the pantry, and binge-watch my favorite shows. I worry I’d be more impatient, not less, and I’d waste away days I wanted to make matter.
Right now, working outside the home actually brings balance. I’m up early, getting everyone out the door, and I spend my day doing work I enjoy. And the best part? Pulling up to the sitters and seeing the pure joy in my little’s faces when they see me. It is the perfect ending to my work day!
And if I’m honest? Having less time means I make more of it. I’m forced to get things done quickly, efficiently, and with purpose. It doesn’t always feel easy, but it feels right for right now. (Tools like my slow cooker and rice cooker save me so much time in this season.)
Calling on God for Wisdom
And this is why it’s so important for me to continually call on the Lord and ask Him to guide me into the servant life He’s called me to. I once heard a sermon that said something like this: you may not be the one called to the mission field in Haiti, or called to foster and adopt. Start exactly where you are.
Out on the factory floor. In the hospital with your patients and coworkers. With the patrons at your restaurant—or the cooks and the carry-out boy. Right where you are, ask the Lord to shine His light through you.
And of course, most importantly, right there in your own home with your sweet babies and husband. Pray for the wisdom and knowledge to raise those little ones in the deliverance of God. Because whether we’re in scrubs, business clothes, or pajama pants, we are still mamas on mission.
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