Pages

Wednesday, August 24, 2011

Redefining Myself Through Volunteering

I may not have mentioned this already, but last year my husband and I made the decision that I should leave my job.  Working nearly full time - even telecommuting from home - and raising a child with a husband also working full time was causing a lot of stress on my life and my marriage, but it also wasn't allowing us to raise our child the way that we had hoped.  The transition from paid worker to unpaid servant was difficult.  And, it's still something that I cope with each day.  However, I've found ways to redefine myself not just as a mom, but as a professional with some serious clout!  I became a volunteer.

Volunteers aren't typically thought of as being professional nor building career reputations.  This image is definitely wrong...when you've got the right organization training you.  Several years ago, I made the decision to join the Junior League.  While I originally did this to make friends, this decision has grown into a commitment and a personal development opportunity.  I've been able to test out different opportunities for future resume building and career growth.  I've planned events, developed fundraisers, managed committees, and developed my skills at social networking.  Plus, I've been able to network with women who are still working in the corporate world who may one day provide me an opportunity to return to work if and when it fits into the lifestyle I want for my family.

Volunteering doesn't have to be seen as doing the jobs that no one else wants to do.  It doesn't have to be seen as only involving menial tasks.  The nonprofit sector provides opportunities to develop your corporate skills while making an impact on lives around you...all in the timeframe  that you, as a mom, are able to give.  I have seldomly heard of a volunteer being fired...which means you can test out different areas of work without fear! One of the best parts; however, is that many nonprofits allow you to volunteer - at least in part - with your child present.  So, not only are you developing your potential, but your teaching your child how to help others.  It's a win-win situation!

If you're looking for areas to volunteer, why not check out the Junior League...they're not the same as they were 50 years ago, but a group of amazing, empowered women who are making a true impact in the communities around them.  You can find out more at www.ajli.org or follow me on Twitter @KatieShuck.

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Words out of a mother's mouth

Ever since becoming a mom, there are key words and phrases that I have tried my best not to say.  It's not that there's really anything wrong with these words and phrases...it's that I don't want to become the cliche mom who is always saying things like, "Because I said so" or "When I was your age..."  So far, I've done pretty well at skipping these phrases, but I've been shocked at some of the other things that come out of my mouth when talking to my sweet pea.  So, I thought I'd share...

  • We don't touch puppy/cat/pig/goat/bunny bottoms.
  • Heads don't go in potties.
  • Dip your food, not your fingers.
  • We only spit after brushing our teeth.
  • Puppy food is for puppies.
  • You pooped in the potty!!  YEAH!
  • We don't drink Bud Light........yet. (Hey, I'm from St. Louis)
What phrases have most surprised you after flowing from your lips?