The End of Maternity Leave

I went back to work today. After 12 weeks of slow, quiet maternity leave, I went back to my full-time job as a graphic designer. To be honest, it's been better than I could have even hoped. I woke up, got ready, took Peter over to the babysitter's, and drove to the office. I wore a new shirt and curled my hair and walked into work feeling excited (and a little nervous). Everyone at work was SO NICE. One of the girls on my team brought me flowers and my boss bought me an office plant and a card welcoming me back. I felt extremely appreciated and loved.

The decision to come back to work after having a baby was simple and complicated at the same time. On the one hand, I knew that I wanted to come back because I didn't want to be home by myself all day (please don't @ me about how on having a baby isn't the same as being home alone. You know what I mean), but at the same time, after the baby was actually born, I felt really strongly that it was important for me to be home, to be present, and to be a very engaged mom. So, even though I had pretty much officially decided to come back to work, I still had a lot of doubts about making it work.

But I did it! Obviously, it's only been one day, but I'm giving myself credit where credit is due. I went to work, I pumped breastmilk, and I didn't even cry. Everyone kept asking me how I was doing, and I told them I was feeling really happy, which (gratefully) was the truth!

I think being back at work feels good for a few reasons. One, I feel like I appreciate adult conversation so much more now that I've spent the last few months at home. I've always known that I'm an extrovert, but today I was reminded how important it is for me to talk to people and share my thoughts and feelings almost constantly. Two, it feels good to be in my element. Before Peter was born, I was doing my best to be motivated and organized, but I just didn't feel good. Now that I'm not pregnant, I have my energy and zest back, which makes work much more enjoyable. The last thing I liked about going to work was actually coming home. I was so happy to see Peter and I felt like I was able to engage and play with him for a few hours without being distracted or getting bored/frustrated. I know not every day will be like this, but I'm happy with how today turned out, and I'm hopeful about the future.

♡♡♡
Rebecca