Maternity and parental laws have changed quite a bit these last years, and it is quite confusing when you're a first time mom/parent and/or don't have the proper support or explanations through your employer. Thankfully, my hospital UCSF, offered free maternity leave legal counseling and education, so I was able to take advantage of this amazing service and could ask all the questions I had with a live legal counselor. I highly recommend that once you've decided on a hospital to deliver at, that you do your due diligence and ask if any and all maternity education is offered. Closed mouths don't get fed, and the worst thing they can say is no, so there's not much to lose except staying quiet! Because I educated myself, I was able to educate the HR department at my job regarding the new changes in maternity leave time-frame, as well as obtain a longer secured time with my baby, without jeopardizing my position at my job. It was scary to be the first person, nevertheless female, to ever bring this new information up to the higher ups. I do however feel empowered that I was able to bring such positive changes to my workplace as well as lead the path for all future mothers/parents at my company as well. I've included the brochures with detailed explanations of each type of leave as well as Federal versus State and even San Francisco's laws regarding entitled paid and non-paid leave and job-protection. You're welcome ;-)

For more accurate, and up-to-date general information regarding legal rights relating to employment in California, please refer to https://legalaidatwork.org/

MATERNITY LEAVE

PARENTAL LEAVE

One of my most frequently worn jackets during the fall and spring has been my FAUX SUEDE LEATHER JACKET. Stylish, comfortable and affordable (under $50 find!) which is always a plus. It's not maternity, but I did size up. If you're not ready to splurge on a real suede moto jacket, I do not blame you, as this piece is definitely a great alternative and the neutral cognac color can be worn in so many ways with many other complimentary colors. I'm nearing the end of my pregnancy and as much as I love to mix and match as many outfits with one piece, 2 was the max my little waddling-frame could handle this time around ;-) Can't wait for babygirl's arrival so I can get some more strength back, and show off more options! But you can see how I transitioned this jacket from casual to dressy pretty effortlessly, and remained comfortable during my pregnancy in both variations!