The return to work and other thoughts

I work at amazon. And, just in case you read this twenty years from
now and we haven't become the United States of Amazon, amazon is a
company that prides itself on superior customer service and provides
the largest assortment of online goods. It's really amazing what
Amazon accomplishes. However, it is at the cost of a lot of time on
the part of many hard working individuals.

Christmas is a particularly busy time when 60% of annual sales are
earned. So, we quadruple the headcount. Where there are more people,
there are more people issues. You see where I'm going with this. Well,
in all of this, I am fortunate to have a boss who understands what is
important for his people, and makes great personal sacrifice to ensure
we can maintain perspective on where our priorities lie.

I returned Friday to work part time until after Christmas. I am
working a couple hours onsite and working from home a couple hours a
week until after Christmas, when you will be in the capable and loving
arms of Amanda.

The good things about this arrangement is saving a week of vacation,
making a gradual transition back to work, and giving you some time
with just you and your daddy.

I miss you like crazy when I am at work. I have always been a worker
and for years have insisted I could never be a stay at home mom, but
now I would totally do it-- for you. However, right now I am confident
in the long term childcare arrangement, and know that I am providing
for your other needs. I know you will still be loved and cared for,
even if it isn't from me. But, your daddy has done a heck of a job
this weekend.

I am so glad that he is your daddy, Emery. Daddys are so important.
Your daddy is generally only cranky when tired, hungry, or hot. He
likes to play with you, wants to help you learn, wants to help you
grow spiritually, mentally, and physically, and cares about ensuring
all of your needs are met. He loves you and me. We are lucky girls!

If there is ever a point where you feel work has taken too much of my
time, know that I love you, too. You are my inspiration to keep
trucking. I want you to see that women can do whatever they put their
mind to, and can be contributors in many ways in the home and society
at large. And that a successful marriage is built on partnership, a
shared sense of putting God first, and flexibility on roles in the
home. You will see me wield a hammer, mow the yard, take out the trash
and work in a factory. You will see your dad play tea party with you,
cook dinner, or do laundry. And vice versa. Your dad is better at the
mowing, and he will never fold clothes like I do, but we help each
other out. You get the picture.

I've rambled enough. I would never choose work over you. I'm doing
what I have to do. I love you.

Mom