Maternity Leave

Ever since Ryan and I started talking about kids, I've been confused and torn about how much time I plan to take off after Jude is born. While we were in New Castle, we had hoped I could stay home and raise our child for the first few years. In our new home however, that's just not an option.

Shortly after finding out I was pregnant I sat down with my HR department to discuss my options as far as FMLA, benefits, etc. were concerned. My job is secure for 4 months and negotiable after that time. My short term disability covers my pay while I am out on leave and the amount of time covered depends on a number of factors (basically they will pay me as long as my doctor gives them the OK). After speaking with my doctor's office at my last appointment it seems they typically will approve somewhere between 6 and 8 weeks.

I let the appropriate persons at work know today that I intend to be taking 2 months off after delivery. In the event that I am taken out of work prior to delivery (I plan to work to the end) I will be taking that time in addition to the 2 months.

Part of me wants to take more time off to stay at home and be a full time mother. The other part thinks that the 2 months will be just enough for me (any more and I won't want to come back). A benefit in my head is that it could be best for me and the baby to not get too used to being at home and instead get ourselves into our real routine. It's really hard to say and once I'm out I will still have time to change my mind. In addition, announcing my intentions to work is not setting them in stone and I still have time to change my plans between now and then. This is just kind of a guideline so that the company can start planning any way they need to for my time away.