For the last 5 years, by choice, I have drawn a paycheck of hugs and kisses. But taking the stay-at-home mom path was more coincidental than strategically planned.

My husband Tim took a job in the Dallas area, and I accompanied him, already 5 months pregnant. When we moved, the University of Missouri, my former employer, allowed me to work remotely through my August due date. When school started, I obviously was in Texas, so I left my position. I worked until the week I delivered -- at which point I became officially a "homemaker" -- though my husband might vote for maker of household disarray. 

I remember being in tears at a post-partum medical visit, realizing I had to label myself as a "homemaker" on some form. My C-section scarred body limped to the information desk and explained my current situation. I was gently assured this was the box to check. I would have taken "stay-at-home mom" or "unemployed but born to breastfeed" as a better option.

Homemaker?!? That was some '50s throwback -- black and white TV, women who wore aprons and slept in twin beds alongside (certainly not with) their husband. 

Wasn't there a more dignified way to classify a stay-at-home hormonally raging new mom?

So now I'm writing, and I am drawing some form of spending money. Granted, it's a meager paycheck, but it's something... so I've been saving this money like a squirrel hiding nuts for winter. I would not spend this on Cascade, toilet paper or groceries unless absolutely necessary.

I spent part of it on my vacation from my family when I went to Austin with two girlfriends.

The rest went to... (OK I am SO embarrassed to write this)  -- JEANS! I was down to one measly pair purchased three years ago that was too big in the butt, too short in length and fraying on the ends. This is my regular "work" uniform these days, so I bought two pair in a store where I actually was served bottled water while shopping. 

Does this mean I can now check the box as "fashionable freelance writer who happens to drive a crumb and milk laden SUV?"

I'll take that over "homemaker" any day...