As many of you know, I am a fairly new mother. And I have a full time job. Right now I am in California, nearly 3,000 miles away from The Bean, Crunch 'n Munch, Super Baby, Avery Boo, Little Punky La Roux (if you have a child, I am sure you can relate to the nicknames). I am currently on my first extended business trip away from her. I have been away from her before for a few days, in Germany for a wedding. That was hard. This is hard too, but different since it's for work. I am still new at this mothering thing, but have a few working out-of-the-home mother observations. Here they are:
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Comfort with leaving her is directly related to having a great nanny. We have a great nanny. I never think twice when I leave the house. Even for a few days.
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She is ok without me. Her father is a great caregiver. I am not the only one who can raise her. I know this sounds like an obvious observation, but I think mothers have a gene that tells us we have to be the one who does things. I know that is not true. It's great if I can be that one, but let me not undermine or underestimate her father's ability to take great care of her.
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She will remember me when I get back. It may take her a second (she is only 8 months old...not even...7 months and 3 weeks) but recognition "wait, I know this person" happens. That is a wonderful thing.
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Being away clarifies work for me - I better love what I do, or else. If not, being away shines a bright light in your face that you cannot ignore, as there is real sacrifice. Thank goodness I have a very meaningful career.
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And finally, there are two first times for everything: the first time she does something, and the first time I see/hear/witness it. So far this week, I have missed "Ma Ma Ma", the first real crawling and picking up an object with two fingers. Big sigh. There is an upside...perhaps if I stay away long enough, she will be potty trained when I return.
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