Finest Worksong

Most friends and clients know that M. and I run our business from our home, that is, from our barn in the back. Our work schedule was developed in the early years while our family and the business was in its infancy, by working any 12 hours of the day that we wished.

We felt that it worked for our clients as well as our family- I had the ability to be home for the girls while they were up and adjusted my work hours to their nap time and that wonderful block of time bewteen 7pm and 1am, when I would get most of my work accomplished.

Now the girls are older, I can work the traditional business (er, bank) hours, plus some (from 9am to 4pm AND 8pm to 1am).

I have to admit, vacation always throws me off a bit. Figuring out how to get the work done while a couple of princesses are dancing around to Hannah Montana and asking me for red pencils, paper, string, snacks and extra hugs is nice, but distracting at times. I am back to completing most of my work late night. But to sit my kitchen, take advantage of the wireless and the sun that streams through the window having just completed easter eggs and a load of laundry while the girls create books in the dining room is more than satisfying. But the work (or the family) can often slip in priority, depending on who is more in need. And the days are less a balance of my time and more of a juggling act. But I actually enjoy my days more.

In times of recession many people decide to hold their fate in their own hands and start a business. That is what we did 9 years ago. Newly minted entrepreneurs call on us every week, and I anticipate more as the current economy grinds on.

I think of how many people who are in or may be contemplating the same position- that of work-at-home-parent- and wonder how a flexible schedule can bring out the best (and worst) of daily roles. Does it make me a better boss? employee? parent? partner? Or do I just think I am?