Balancing career and family

My husband and I work fifty miles apart, which on Los Angeles freeways means we are an hour to an hour and a half apart. Add a baby to that mix and life starts to become really confusing. The best place to live, given both of our careers, is also quite muddled.

Originally when we were first married we decided to live somewhere in between. Then the baby came along and we decided we should live closer to my office so that I could manage the child care easier. So my husband has been driving two to three hours a day, five days a week, while also trying to be a good father and to get in his billable hours at his law firm.

This week we have arrived at a juxtaposition of sorts where we are both stressed by his commute and the effects it is having on our family. It is so tough when we both have demanding careers that require much attention and energy to do well. Also, we want to be there for our child and to spend time with him while he is young and still wants to spend time with us.

We are in the process of exploring housing options closer to my husband's office. Hopefully, since I can cut my schedule to three solid days a week, it will mean less overall commuting for our family.


Kari Ann Hong, DDS
1000 Newbury Road, Suite 190
Thousand Oaks, CA 91320
www.dentist4smiles.com