Oahu. Beijing. Phuket. Manila. Singapore. Portland. Ho Chi Minh. Bangkok. Jakarta.
These are some of the cities I’ve traveled to in the course of my last job as a Communications Manager, then Marketing Manager for an international sports company (I’m sure you know which one).
I loved it. The rush of being in a new place. The opportunity to head off on my own to neighboring cities after work was done (which included San Francisco, New York City, among others). The excitement of being part of an international press event. The accomplishment of pitching stories, dealing with journalists and laying back on luxurious pillows in hotels I couldn’t possibly afford and eating meals I wouldn’t dream of indulging in on my own. Meeting superstars in the sports and entertainment world. Learning the ins and outs of how a leading company does its business.
I loved every minute of my career.
I gave it all up nearly 3 years ago without hesitation.
I gave it up for this.
For the rush of seeing you smile at me. For the full, bursting heart of love for you, my sweet child. For the looks of love we exchange daily.
I gave it up for this.
For the simple, daily things we do together. For the joy you bring to me and everyone around you. For all the milestones you’ve reached and I haven’t missed.
I gave it up for this.
For our togetherness.
I wouldn’t trade this world with you for anything.
Have you given up anything recently?
Linking up with my friends at yeah write, a wonderful writing community.
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and you’ve never looked, or sounded happier
congratulations!
Thank you Koobz. Though working with you on that short film was one of the highlights of my career
To think I could’ve met you here in Portland! That would’ve been fun.
This was a truly gorgeous post both in word and image. I love your love for your gorgeous boy.
Jen ‘s last awesome post..The Apple, The Monster, And The Cookie
Thank you Jen!
If I was blogging back then, I would have met a lot of you!
This made me feel all warm and fuzzy!
Togetherness is SO worth it.
Tonya ‘s last awesome post..The Things Lucas Says
It SO is!
I am working on a documentary film about mother artists. I’m in post-production right now and I post short clips from the film to keep people interested. This clip seems appropriate to your post. And your post is so beautiful. You can also find out more about the film by going to http://www.maandpafilms.com/lostinliving/ Thanks for taking a look. http://youtu.be/mnPrnk2hT1g or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mnPrnk2hT1g&feature=plcp&context=C3834186UDOEgsToPDskIdjze9IhMjB3vLb1q6Gmgh
I had a look, Mary, thanks for pointing the video out! And thank you for your kind comments.
You have given up much but gained even more.
I have never regretted my decision to stay home. I love seeing that others don’t either!
Life As Wife ‘s last awesome post..Want Him Back
Yes, exactly that – I’ve gained so much more and nothing can replace THIS motherhood experience.
Sweet!
I actually got a bit teary eyed reading this alison!
Such a beautiful and poignant post. The love you have for that little boy is just bursting!
Thanks for making my night!
Devon Riesenberg ‘s last awesome post..11 Things
Thank you Devon, for your kind sweet words.
I too gave up a career for motherhood. Staying at home is hard work, but every single minute is so worth it. Glad you get to experience it as well!
Jessica ‘s last awesome post..A Letter To My Boys
Worth every single minute.
What a great post. The picture of you holding hands is beautiful! Motherhood s the toughest but most rewarding job I’ve ever had. Sounds like your sacrifices have been completely worth it.
Brandee ‘s last awesome post..Slowing down the crazy kid
Yes, exactly that – this job we have? Is the hardest, and the most rewarding. Who wouldn’t want to do it?
I gave up my career too, though it didn’t sound as glamorous as yours! I wouldn’t change a thing. Being together with my kids, for me, was the best choice.
Kimberly ‘s last awesome post..Things I Can’t Do
We can always work, but our kids won’t always be young and small. I wouldn’t miss a minute of it for anything.
It wrong that I want to give up mine? The job not the child.
I’m starting to really find my footing in this SAHM gig. I’d be happy never to have to go back to work. That’s why Chunky starting school is pretty devestaing to me.
Kimberly ‘s last awesome post..All Work No Play Meet Grasshopper Kidz
I hope you find a good balance, Kim. And I love that you’re enjoying being home with Chunky. They’re only 2/ 3 once, right?
That’s too cool. As a journalist, I love you PR people.
Blond Duck ‘s last awesome post..Ode to Spring and How I Love Thee
Thanks Blond Duck
So glad I made the same choice. xoxo
tracy@sellabitmum ‘s last awesome post..Jesus Would Never Block My Sidewalk…
To the point where we just rock it, right?
So precious ‘trade’ you did, Alison and look at your cute handsome Monkey. He’s just too adorable. Love the pics
Maureen | Tatter Scoops ‘s last awesome post..Tagging Killer
It’s a trade I’d do over anytime. And thank you!
Ok that second picture totally made me smile!!!!
I love that picture too!
I can definitely see how that would be an amazing time! That’s why they say, “Do it while you are young!”
I’m pretty sure that while it was totally worth giving up, you’ll treasure that time for the rest of your life.
liz ‘s last awesome post..BBCD is 2 (+ 2 1/2)
Oh yes, I remember those globe-trotting days well
Sounds like you have had some amazing experiences. . . one of the most being your little monkey!
I love the photo of you two holding hands. I have a post rumbling around in my brain about how much I love my children’s hands . . . some small and yet capable of holding my heart.
Jenn@Fox in the City ‘s last awesome post..How do You Define Womanhood
Oh I just love my baby’s hands (okay not a baby anymore, but you know what I mean). Do write that post, it’d be amazing.
Simply put and beautiful. The hand holding photo is precious. Do you think you’ll go back when they’re older?
Nicole @MTDLBlog ‘s last awesome post..6 People Who Helped Me Become “Me” {Listable Life}
I don’t know – I can’t picture going back. I’ll probably be too old anyway!!
Very sweet. I gave up my career too. But I actually feel like I exchanged it, you know? I think you do – the title of your post says as much!
Missy | Literal Mom ‘s last awesome post..Hey! It’s OK! Tuesday
Yes, motherhood is a full-time gig – just more unpredictable, fun, rewarding and lifelong!
Wonderful post! You’re in a much better place than I am about all the “giving up” we do for the “getting.” I’ll bookmark to re-read anytime I feel sorry for myself.
Kristin ‘s last awesome post..Glad I Saw It: Fish and Fleur-di-Lis
Thank you Kristin! It took me a little while to get to a place where I didn’t think, perhaps a career would do me good – but now that I’m here, it’s a damn good place!
i admire you for staying at home. I couldn;t do it. I;m too anxiety ridden. Plus, my daughters are a little older.
Bless you for being so selfless. Your baby is adorable.
Lance ‘s last awesome post..Not A Pretty Girl
Thank you Lance. I’ve always thought of choosing to stay home with my son as a privilege, not a sacrifice
Awww he’s worth it! They grow so fast you don’t want to miss a thing.
Natalie ‘s last awesome post..Wind, Rain, and a Salt Water Pool
He’s absolutely worth it. It would break my heart for someone else to tell me about what he’s been up to and what milestones he’s reached!
Twitter: kerstinauer
says:
Gorgeous writing and pictures. That smile! I’m glad that you are thoroughly enjoying this phase of your life! They do grow up fast…
Kerstin ‘s last awesome post..Best Days
Thank you Kerstin! I’m totally enjoying it. They won’t be babies/ toddlers for long!
It’s so great that you feel that way. Knowing you made the right choice (whatever that choice may be) is such a gift. Not only for you, but for your children. It colors everything.
Christine @ Quasi Agitato ‘s last awesome post..Plan Z
You articulated that perfectly, Christine.
I love his spikey hair!!!
I recently gave up meat for lent. It hasn’t brought nearly as much happiness as you’ve had with your son. Maybe I should take pics of my veggies & cuddle them?
Pop ‘s last awesome post..When Patience is Not a Virtue
I do too! I miss the spikes.
I would love to see a picture of veggie cuddling.
It is worth it.
Jessica ‘s last awesome post..Proving Myself Wrong
Totally, 100%.
I felt the same way. I couldn’t imagine going back to my job after I had my baby. Even though I LOVED my job.
Shell ‘s last awesome post..Crafts for the Uncrafty Mom
It’s harder to want to go back as time goes by. Especially when another child is due to make an appearance.
Also, if I worked, when will I have time to hone my uncrafty skills?
Such a sweet post Alison! I wish I could say I gave up my job “without hesitation.” Truth is, I did hesitate. It was a difficult decision for me…I worked for 16 years before having my first son at age 37. But at least now I can truthfully say that quitting my job to be with my kids was one of the best decisions of my life.
Jen {at} take2mommy ‘s last awesome post..Date with B in the Year 2020
I’m so glad you know that it IS the best decision. That’s the hard part in the trying to decide what to do process.
Funny this should be your topic today – I’ve been having one of those “U-turn” moments in parenting when I am wondering if I should have given up my career or not. Really deep stuff. I’m glad I did – I would do it again – but as the kids are getting older it all changes – and now I’m kind of going, where’s the “me” here? Like you I loved having my career and $ and that “power” of a different kind – and I loved being home with my children – and now – I am questioning what my next step is. Sorry for blathering on here…! Great topic. PS: Oh that newborn baby photo! His face is precious!
Ado ‘s last awesome post..My Parents Friends
I might experience the same thing when the boys are older, I don’t know. But the longer I’m out of the workforce, the more reluctant I feel about going back. I don’t know. I just know that right now, I am so lucky to be able to stay home!
Another beautiful love letter to your boy(s). Though I haven’t given up anything lately I can well imagine doing so for the rewards of caring for another.
stephanie ‘s last awesome post..Sisterhood of the Traveling Cookies
Thank you Stephanie! The best part about this stay-at-home gig is the endless, unexpected gifts I get daily from my son.
This is so beautiful Alison. I gave up my job as I knew it for exactly the same thing, for the moments and the wonder of each day with the minis. Thank you for sharing this, it’s a breath of fresh air!
Shannon from ‘mynewfavoriteday’ ‘s last awesome post..The sounds of letting go.
Thank you Shannon! So glad you’re also experiencing the wonders of being with your babies daily.
Those moments when a now not so small hand reaches out to hold mine are priceless. I love that we get to be home and experience those moments.
JDaniel4′s Mom ‘s last awesome post..Pause Life for a Moment- Stories from the Shoebox
Those moments are what make my day
This was so touching. I can plainly see that your decision was the right one.
Katie ‘s last awesome post..But, Now I See
Thank you Katie, it absolutely is.
This is so lovely. It’s perfect. What a great piece for him. I know he’ll love to read it one day!
Natalie @MamaTrack ‘s last awesome post..Scrambled Me
That’s the hope for this blog – that my boys will love reading about themselves.
I gave up on my treatment and medicine. I have been over medicate for depression since 2007, and now i gave up on all the meds, as i have decided i can do it alone
That’s very courageous, good luck!
I had a very similar job to yours (esp in terms of the int’l travel and all its benefits) but I was meeting the superstars in finance. But that wasn’t the job I left to be a mom – my life was much more subdued then and easier to give up.
Lady Jennie ‘s last awesome post..Endives in Béchamel
I loved all your stories about your international life, Jennie. Just as much I enjoy reading your motherhood tales.
So sweet. I agree with you; leaving the adult world for the stay at home mommy world was the best decision I ever made.
Julia ‘s last awesome post..Sunday Silliness: 11 Things
It’s amazing, isn’t it?
I don’t have the perspective of a mom, but I do have the perspective of a being a child raised by a stay-at-home mom. As much as you cherish the moments, know that your child is doing the same and will one day be very thankful for you making the decision to give up the crazy work life for them.
Miranda ‘s last awesome post..Looking back, looking forward…
Thank you for that perspective, Miranda. It’s reassuring to know that the choice I made is a good one for my kids.
Awww baby! So precious.
Mayor Gia ‘s last awesome post..Animals Giving Awards, Part I
Hee! Thank you.
You made me cry Alison. So beautiful. The picture of your hands? *sob!* So sweet.
January ‘s last awesome post..When they make it hard to love them…
Aw, thanks January. Or is it sorry? My sister took that picture of our hands without my knowledge. I found it on my camera and it instantly became my favorite picture.
Such an inspiring tale, Alison.
You see, I was working 2 jobs to keep things at home. And I recently gave up my part time work so that I can spend the evenings with my furkids, Pepper and Tango. Coming back from work with enough energy to play with them and taking them for evening walks.
I feel fulfilled.
jamie ‘s last awesome post..What To Do When People Talk Behind Your Back
Fulfillment is what we all strive for isn’t it? We’re lucky.
Beautiful post. It’s always worth the tradeoff. Always.
Bridget ‘s last awesome post..Deadly Dinner
Absolutely, Bridget.
This is just beautiful, Alison. I too am blessed to be at home with my girls and I cherish the time with them (even though it’s not always sunshine and roses =)). It may not be the most glamorous job, but for me…it’s the most glorious. Thank you for sharing. And your little boy is adorable!
Elizabeth ‘s last awesome post..Frugal Fashionista Friday
Glorious is a perfect way to describe it! (and thank you!)
“It’s official” in my house! I love holding hands with my kids when they let me!
Jamie ‘s last awesome post..rsv is a dirty word
Yay!! So happy for you.
So sweet! You little one is adorable. And I totally and completely understand the pull to give up career for family. I gave up teaching three years ago to stay home full time to my brood. I’ve since balanced things out a bit by working part time from home. But I love love LOVE getting to be with them all the time. Sure they drive me nutso, but that’s what I asked for. Aren’t we lucky Mamas?
p.s. love your belly pic over there in the sidebar!
Oh we are SO lucky! (and thank you!)
In the first picture he looks like that little baby off of Ice Age!
I hope you take that as a compliment cause I mean it as one!
Leighann ‘s last awesome post..Ignorance out of Fear
Absolutely, and thank you
Oooo, Mama, A…
You make me want to start. all. over. again.
You Inspire. Xxx
My Inner Chick ‘s last awesome post..A Beautiful, Unexpected Gift
Thank you so much Kim!
This is stunning and lovely and all that is good in between.
I think that sometimes you have to let go of one thing, to make room for another. I’m thinking of the good things – bad eating habits for good, TV for talking, and so on. Does that make any sense at all?!)
(I love this one – so much!)
Galit Breen ‘s last awesome post..Well Practiced Love
I do know what you mean, Galit! (and thank you!)
I love it. I quit my job 2 months ago … for the hugs and cuddles. And I love it. I grumble about doing a bad job, etc… but the truth is – I love almost every moment of it. Beautiful post.
kristen ‘s last awesome post..The things we do for our kids – that we won’t do for ourselves.
Thank you Kristen. It’s awesome, isn’t it?
You were right to make sure, you wouldn’t miss a thing.. Beautiful post Alison!
Mirjam ‘s last awesome post..Choices
Thank you Mirjam, I am blessed!
You lived the life that seems so exotic and exciting to most of us. I like to think that instead of ‘giving up’ your career, you ‘moved on’ to bigger and better!
Leslie ‘s last awesome post..{Looking Back} March 2011
That is a wonderful perspective, Leslie!
I think you have gained so much more than you have given up!
Barbara ‘s last awesome post..Dear Nathan …
That I definitely have.
You’ve truly had the best of both worlds. You’re a very lucky woman, Alison.
Kristin @ What She Said ‘s last awesome post..Kids Say the Darndest Things
I definitely am!
Lovely post…and so very true. Thanks for sharing. You brought me back to the years when I realized for the first time that I hadn’t given up so much. I just traded it for a whole new kind of fun and joy.
Trish in AZ ‘s last awesome post..An Indie Author
Yes that’s exactly it – a new kind of fun and joy!
This is such a sweet post and wonderful reminder. I wouldn’t trade this life for any other. I’m so grateful to be here with my girls, to be present for their smiles and stumbles and wet kisses.
Jessica ‘s last awesome post..How I lost my baby weight with mindful eating
I wouldn’t want to miss all those amazing moments.
Beautiful post. “I wouldn’t trade this world with you for anything.” I feel the same way about my boys.
Stacey ‘s last awesome post..Casanova
We’re so lucky, aren’t we?
I did the same back in October after 21 years in the corporate world.
You give me faith to believe it gets better ~ I’m finding it to be a huge adjustment. Wouldn’t change it, it’s just a whole different world.
Susan ‘s last awesome post..What.I.Wore
It is a huge adjustment. But you’ll grow into it and it’s absolutely worth it.
I have this little test I played with myself when I left medicine. If I am at the end of a long life, on my death bed, would I regret not being a doctor or would I regret missing the magic of my children’s lives? I am a SAHM and it has always been the right choice for me. A hard job at times, but one that is constantly steeped in joy. Ellen
Sisterhood of the Sensible Moms ‘s last awesome post..Flummoxing Technology: The Rubbish List
That is a very good question to ask oneself!
So, so worth it. So glad to see it written so eloquently! You hit the nail on the head.
Susan ‘s last awesome post..Why Periods Should be Punctual (Ha.)
Thank you Susan!
What a beautiful piece, Alison. Good for you for capturing this moment, as it is fleeting. Your heart will jump when you come back and ready it several years from now. Lovely. Just lovely.
Lenore Diane ‘s last awesome post..What the heck do I know?
Thank you so much, Lenore.
Sweetest post ever. Love the shot of you holding hands
XLMIC ‘s last awesome post..But first…
Aw, thank you! I love that picture too.
Isn’t it funny how easily we change once we see that little package? New life puts things into perspective. Lovely post.
kgwaite ‘s last awesome post..Missing
Yes, absolutely! And thank you.
Like Ellen, it was about what I would regret later in life. I don’t think I’ll ever look back and think “I should have spent more time with other people’s children in my first grade class.” I am thankful every day that I had the choice to stay home with my two gals!
BTW, Alison you look fabulous!!
Jackie ‘s last awesome post..Timing is everything
We’re so lucky, Jackie! (and thank you)
as always…beautiful.
christina ‘s last awesome post..Will you? Huh??
Thank you Christina.
I did it for the same reason, only I work from home. But I gave up the good money. Is there any other more amazing choice we could make.
I recently gave up my sanity when everyone in my family fell ill, fell onto my last nerve or just fell and broke another bone. But I’m working on getting it back.
Kim Pugliano ‘s last awesome post..Comment on Core Values by Kimberly Pugliano
Sounds like a tough time! Hope you get your sanity back soon
And I have no doubt you made the right choice.
And am I glad I did!