Today is August 31 and I am...

UNEMPLOYED!  (here's my best Elvis impression, "thank ya, thank ya very much")

After much deliberation, my husband and I made the decision that it would be best for me to quit my job.  I have been working from home as a medical transcriptionist for a couple of years now, and it's been a great job for me.  However, time has not been my friend and I have been struggling with some behavior changes in my children and some homeschooling issues as well.  Essentially, while I am technically home with the children, the afternoon hours are spent with me working at my computer and the children being pretty well on their own.  They are certainly capable at nearly 8 and 14, but over time I have noticed some 'tude' problems that I am very displeased with.  When I sit them down to firmly discuss the problems, somehow my job always comes up.  Yes, I know that they can be yanking my chain to some degree, as they are aware of my mixed feelings over not being able to really 'be' with them while I am working.  I am also aware that my son has entered those teen years, and there are some changes to be associated with that.  However, I do feel that having a parent's direct undivided attention is of tremendous benefit to children, even if it is nothing more than direct eye contact and a listening ear.  In addition to this, we have really struggled with trying to get all of our school work done prior to my beginning my work at 1:00.  Also the house is a disaster, as mornings are spent schooling, afternoons working, supper preparations, family time and baths and then bedtime!  When do you vacuum, mop, finish the laundry?? WHEW.

So I called my employer this morning and she was so kind and supportive, stating that she understood my reasons and while she hated to lose me, if things changed and I needed to come back, just call her.  I felt such relief over this and we chatted for about half an hour lol.  I'm to return her equipment tomorrow, and that will be my last day since our current pay period ends tomorrow. 

The best part?  I hung up the phone, went to the children and said, ok...it's official.  Tomorrow is my last day of work.  Huge grins spread over their faces, and the littlest one ran to throw her arms around me!  How's that for a great reaction??

Let the celebration begin!!