Before I had Elliott, three months seemed like an eternity. I knew when having her that the first month would be insane - but those last two months I had off? I fantasized about blogging often, taking her to eat lunch in the park, finishing my new website, doing all sorts of design and home projects, and taking road trips to visit friends.
What I didn't realize was that those three months would FLY by. I also didn't realize how hard these three months would be – not because you're learning to take care of a tiny human (though that's a big chunk of why it's hard). You're also learning to heal, learning to connect with your partner again, learning your limitations, learning what kind of parent you want to be, and learning how to get back to your old self while reconciling with this new person you've become.
All this learning, and now my maternity leave has come to what seems like an abrupt end, even though I've had months to prepare. It's definitely a bittersweet feeling. Some days I'd be so angry/jealous at Eric for getting to leave the house and go to work everyday. Some days felt extremely isolating. Then other days I was so ready to become a stay at home mom and be with Elliott all day everyday.
Tomorrow I'm returning to work and I think I'm ready for it. I'm excited to get back into some sort of routine, and have some time to be creative again. Plus I'm so lucky that Elliott will be getting to spend her days with grandma.
Now it's time to get back to my last full weekday with baby - and we're doing it right: with couch snuggles all day and a fancy dinner tonight. Here's to starting the next chapter!
BTW - if any mamas have any tips for making the transition back to full time any easier - please do share!