 Before I had children I used to think how do people who have children work challenging jobs and then come home and deal with the demands of a kid and now I realize it's actually sort of a secret weapon. You come home and you get this breath of fresh air from this little person who loves you and is exploring the world and I think I smile more than I ever thought I could. I was actually one of the first Coast Guard mothers to benefit from the reservist backbill program that allowed me to take expanded convalescent leave and primary care give relief. My boss, my supervisor and my co-workers were amazing. They were so excited for me to have a baby. The program allowed me to focus on my health and on my new baby without worrying about work at all. The reservist who came in was incredible. Not only did she meet all of the needs of the office but she became a mentor and a friend to me as I went through maternity leave and then returned to work. It made me feel empowered. I didn't feel like I had to choose between putting in a dream sheet for a job that was good for my career or a job that would be good for being a parent. It's certainly a challenge to balance both but the parental leave program with the reservist backfill enables members to do that without being disadvantaged themselves or having their command bearing the burden. Nobody and nothing can prepare you for being a new parent and especially being a working parent. I'm excited to stay in the Coast Guard as my family grows. Baby number two is due any day.