Worked 12 hours yesterday didn't get home until after 1am. In ten minutes I clock back in. I miss my kids. I wish I didn't have to work these hours but i m doing for all three of us. Honestly I don't know if its worth it. Id rather live in poverty and have time with my kids but they need and deserve more. I just hope they understand and know I do it because I love em!

I am sure your kids will understand. Military parents are away from their kids 6 months at a time and the kids understand. My nephew is a prime example of that as he dad was away all the time and he turned out to be a fine young man.

Thanks for that reassuring example, NavyGirl. I'm sure this is probably just me making it a bigger issue. They play on my emotions tho and cry for me. Breaks my heart. I'd rather be playing Ninja turtles with them. I just wanna go home lol!

I think most parents would rather be with their kids than go to work but this is not a perfect world. Just do the best you can.

I agree.
Your kids will learn the values of providing for their families.

Lack work ethics are very evident on these threads.

Great job, little Mama. Proud to know you.

how I wish everyday I can see my kids not every two years,,

(((RCB)))

i know how that feels. :( im sure in time they'll understand and would definitely appreciate everything you've done..

ive worked far from home before left my son when he was 2 months old and when i visit home 5 months after it crumples my heart coz he doesnt recognize who i am so i decided to leave my job and make up for the time i missed. and Now after work i see to it even if im dead tired i find time to play and spend time with them.

whats important is that we always make them feel loved evey hour of everyday. :)

What is it you do you can't see your kids?

kids know when they are loved, whatever the circumstance of their parents

there are parents 'in poverty' who are at home but not doing much parenting and there are wealthy parents who spend time away from home but make it up with much loving when they are there

financial status nor money 'earned' nor time spent working or at home solely determine what makes up a great parent,,,,,

its a complex job, and a delicate balance, if you look in the mirror knowing you are TRULY doing your best to provide their material, spiritual, and emotional support and guidance,,,,,,they will know it too,,,,

Working dads also miss their babies.

I bet they do,, I wonder why society places more 'expectation' on the mom to 'be there' with their child,,,,,where as men are merely pressured to continue making a paycheck?

being a good parent should just be a good parent, one who is doing their best for their child,, period,,,

I'm working abroad and my sis help me to look after my kids,,it's very hard but I have to be strong being a single parent is not easy

You are doing what you need to do to get ahead.

I hope your employers are fair, honest and treat you well.

Too sad, many American women don't have your ethics.

hey RCB after reading some posts here I think it's great that you can at least see them everyday! It is hard to be separated from them. Maybe you can save up some vacation time PTO and do something special.

Dey do... and a lot!!!!

:-) actually the schedule I was working when I posted that and the distance I was having to drive became a little too much. The salary wasn't worth it anymore. My mother was actually raising my kids and it was taking its toll on her. I dont trust anyone else to watch em for that long of time. Their routine was screwed up and they were acting out. Plus they're my babies and I missed them too much! I'm back in my old job and I was told I was first pick if i ever changed my mind. We have everything we need and also some extras...we're all much happier! Being gone 9 hours a day is much better than 12-16!

Wonder mommy