workin'

There are advantages and disadvantages of working for a large company (as is the same with a small company).  I have worked for both, and I have to say that maternity benefits seem to be better at a large company.  I sat down with our HR gal today to go through what has changed since I had Lola.  Believe it or not, several things have changed since January 2009!  I left the meeting feeling much better than I thought I would.  Some benefits have gotten better, some not so much, but generally speaking I will get paid for almost all 12 weeks if I choose to take that much time off.  I only took off 6 weeks last time and it was not enough and I think I am going to take at least 8 or 9 this time, and possibly all 12.  Of course, benefits in the USA are so much worse than pretty much every other country around the world.  Most countries in Europe give a year off (mostly paid), and Canada typically gives 6 month paid.  So the fact that US companies don't even have to pay anything during maternity leave is pretty sad.  I'm lucky I get paid!

Whew!

Finally, I can talk about being pregnant!  I've posted several times about it, but saved them as drafts, so I can post them now.  Due date is April 12th.  We are excited, but nervous as I'm sure most people are anticipating the arrival of their 2nd.  Will I love the 2nd child as much, will I have enough time, money, etc...  I hear that you have enough love, I guess I just have to wait and see!  :)

I've gotten over morning (and afternoon, and evening) sickness as well.  I felt pretty crappy for a couple of months and it's nice to feel better now.   I'm not showing a lot (actually, most people would have no idea I'm pregnant), but my waist has thickened so my pants aren't really fitting very well right now.  I guess I have to switch to maternity pants, but I only have a few smaller tops, so I will be wearing the same thing to work quite often.  Ah, the sacrifices...