Gametes In Love

I had a long needed conversation with my company’s HR and benefits reps about maternity leave. They kind of tag-teamed me, but it was for the best because I got some desperately needed answers.

Let me tell you: reading forms online about what’s covered under PDL (Pregnancy Disability Leave) and FML (Family Medical Leave) and what isn’t covered is confusing. For each question we get answered another one pops up, and it doesn’t help that different places suggest contradictory (or seemingly contradictory) information.

The good news is that my coverage is actually much better than I thought. Although when you start with very low standards, expecting no pay (while on leave), ANY pay seems like a deal!

I get 7 weeks, or in specific HR terms “49 days” of 100% pay. Score! After that there are some more decreases until it goes to nothing, but hey, again, this does make a difference on bills… especially come Christmas time.

My preparation for this meeting was faced with some enthusiasm, and some panic. S and I have been talking about this between us for some time now. We think of good questions… which I immediately forget. Last night, our dinner conversation focused around reading the latest bit of information we received with a fine tooth comb, and explicitly writing down the questions I needed to ask. I feel like such a kid! When I was young, my mom used to put my house key on a ribbon that I would wear around my neck. That way I wouldn’t loose it. I swear my pregnant mind isn’t as bad as I make it out to be, but there are times I wish I had a ribbon I can put around it for awhile.

I’m shocked I get anything done at work!
I’m shocked I remember what my job is at work!
I’m shocked I can remember how to get to work!

… anyway… maternity leave pay… Yey!