Anyhow, pregnancy has led to a number of interesting conversations of late about my career; will I take a full year of mat leave from my job as the Executive Director of the Alberta Magazine Publishers Association? Will I return to my job after mat leave? Who will take care of baby if and when I return to work? Will I want to run screaming back to the office after a few weeks? What's a girl to do?
There are no easy answers when it comes to family and work. I have no idea what having a child will really mean to my life, and whether my maternal gene will kick in and I'll love being at home, taking care of baby. Or, whether hubby will need to step up because this momma ain't staying at home, padres.
I've left things open at the moment so that I have options, which puts me in a fairly envious position. Many moms have no choice but to return to work shortly after birthing. Others decide that pregnancy is the time to put their work aside. For those like me, it's one huge gray area. But judging from the talks I've had with many a galpal and colleague lately, this is one stressful decision. And sadly, the decision almost always falls with the woman. So much for equality, right?
I actually explore this whole gender and family politics at work issue in a story I did for Unlimited magazine. It's a tough one, but frankly, I'm thankful that I have the luxury to weigh my options. So, I guess we'll see what the future brings!
