Playing in the Grass

I came home from grocery shopping last Saturday to discover an empty house and two little boys playing on the grass (one of them for the first time!)

I sure do love those two!

Back to Work

I returned to work 2 weeks ago, and the transition has definitely been full of many new decisions, emotions, and challenges. I knew that it wouldn't be an easy thing, but I had no idea the variety of emotions that I've felt - both positive and negative - as I've had to leave little baby James 4 days a week. Even though it's been tough, though, there are a number of bright spots that have made the transition easier, including:

• having a job I like ... At least if I'm having to be at work instead of with my baby it's nice to be doing something that I enjoy and that feels useful.
  
• having a supportive work environment ... This has made such a difference! People at work have been not only welcoming as I've come back, but so so supportive of my new identity as a mom, and all of the changes in my focus and priorities that come along with that.
• having a child care provider that I know and trust ... I can't imagine the worry and sadness that I would feel if I wasn't positive that James would be just fine while I am away from him.
• the empathy of other moms who have returned to work ... So many women have reached out with their own understanding of how hard it is to leave your baby, along with their reassurances that it does get easier.
• the help and support of an amazing husband who is also an amazing dad ... Enough said!

I could list many other things for which I feel so grateful in the past few weeks, and which I am trying to focus on as I continue to maneuver this transition. But, suffice it to say that despite the difficulties, I do feel very blessed and am so grateful for so many things, not least of which is a happy healthy baby boy that continues to bring so much joy and light to my life!