Today is the last day of my maternity leave.  I look around our apartment & realize that the time ‘off’ did not result in a super organized or clean living

Happy Stuart

environment.  It did not result in me having dinner ready each night (Matt does most of the cooking).  I have taken 10 weeks off of work to spend with Stuart and have done that…most of the time.

This time around I was better at separating myself from work even though it is across the street.  I have been less frustrated with cries and actually took a few naps realizing the dishes could be done later (by the dishwasher).  I was more intentional about trying to recognize Stuart’s schedule, noticing that his schedule changes most days but is starting to develop some type of routine.  I didn’t shower daily but I did enjoyed morning coffee, got connected to world happenings through morning news, and read two books.  I took care of me and Stuart this time.  Matt took care of me too.

The past 10 weeks I have watched Matt change as a parent.  He has always been a good father, but he has really started to see and experience all the craziness.  We have become better partners in parenting.  George is a challenge and takes any opportunity to do what he wants….but together we are figuring it out.  It is funny to hear them chatter & play in the front room.  I think George is developing Matt’s sense of humor.  A ton of laughter surrounds “Snape Snape Severus Snape…DUMBLEDORE”, indoor golf, games, and bath time.

Monday I will return to work at Reeve Union.  People keep asking if I am ‘ready’.  I don’t know.  I have mixed feelings.  I have really enjoyed the time with Stuart.  Being home with one kid and being able to focus only on him has been great.  Being home with two would be a different story.  I don’t have an anxiety about taking Stuart to daycare.  I know & trust them….but I will mostly be sad to be away from him.  The thing that does bring stress is trying to figure out how we will get ready & out the door by 7:30/7:45 am.

Last day of maternity leave

Seems that all the boys in the house are not exactly morning folks, but after a few days I’m sure we will figure it out.  Along with returning to work is the reality that I will need to wear pants that don’t include an elastic band, attempt to do my hair and not carry a burp cloth on my shoulder.  I have considered a hair cut to donate to locks of love for about a month.  I haven’t done it yet and have decided to wait til April when a student group hosts the event in the Union.  I won’t deny that I’ve recently looked in the mirror and thought that I’ve developed the frumpy, hair everywhere, blank stare cuz I’m tired mom look. I’ve never been one for a lot of make up or even spending time getting ready in the morning…mostly because it takes time.  Maybe I’m just in need of a hair cut and a little something to turn that frown upside-down.

That will come with time.  I will close but wanted to post this picture of George.  He was sick

Sick George

this week….runny nose, tough cough and fever.  We got a call from daycare to pick him up on Wednesday because of his fever.  They said that he just asked for his nap pad and wanted to lay down….at 3 pm….obvious he was not feeling well.  I picked him up and the rest of the night he laid on the couch and watched tv and drooled….lots.  In fact, he got up & his shirt was soaked and the couch looked like a puddle.  I guess it is easy to know when he is not himself.  He stayed home Thursday and by 8 am his fever was gone (great news).  He still has a tough cough and determined runny nose…but he is at least 1/2 way back to his crazy normal self.