Candy Jubb is a mother of seven and new resident to Goulburn. A former police officer, she recently ‘retired’ from the force to lay down the law at home. Candy is the author of the blog Candy’s Family, at www.candysfamily.com. The Goulburn Post is proud to have her on board as a columnist.
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LET’S get it out there and over with, yes we have a lot of children. We also own a television and we know how these things happen, and we’ve heard that there is a cure for “that” too.
If I had a dollar for every time I’ve had one of these clever clichés said to me, I’d have... Well at best guess it would pay off the Visa card, but we don’t mind.
We love having a crowd of children, and most people we meet are usually amazed and/or stunned, and tell me that they don’t know how we do it. I have to admit the nice comments often help keep me going.
Looking after a crowd this large is a tough gig, motherhood is now my full-time job. Recently I was asked what I do all day, because apparently I have oodles of time on my hands, yes I’m surprised I let them walk away without a limp too.
So, after a bit of thought about how much I do each day, I decided to add this chapter of my life into my résumé as career skills. Every ten years I tend to change careers, but how do I get the transfer of skills recognised? Let’s face it; writing ‘Homemaker’ on your résumé isn’t going to dazzle anyone.
What to list on the résumé? Cooking and cleaning are a given, but what about the specialist stuff? As a mother I believe I have accumulated a sizable skill set. On a daily basis I organise, mediate, mentor, teach, lead, counsel, inspire, transport, offer activities and sometimes therapies, acquire supplies, be a cheerleader, and consult on issues such as health, wealth, fashion, conflict and events.
Many of these tasks I am required to complete simultaneously. Doesn’t that sound impressive? Motherhood gives us so many skills, and so much to offer. Although I don’t think I will be able to get any written references, from my lot any time soon.
Professional mothering (that’s what I’ve decided to call what I do, during the hours I am conscious) isn’t given the kudos it should, mothering is often undervalued. Feeling valued as a stay at home mother, is something I have struggled with since leaving my job as a police officer.
It was while pregnant with our sixth child and fretting about my return to work, that I finally realised something. I was needed at home, much more than my job needed me. I looked at the hours I spent at work as my time out, where I got to play with adults and talk like one too, and not have to check if anyone needed to go potty before we went out, and best of all I was openly valued.
Now into my second year at home with all my babies, I have learnt so much about my children, and I’m getting to do the fun stuff with them I didn’t have the time to do before. I feel that the kids are benefiting from me being at home, and little by little I’m starting to feel valued again. No one will probably tell me that, but at least I’ll know.
EMAIL: candysfamilyblog@gmail.com