Well, this is it. My last day of maternity leave. Tomorrow I go back to work. So here’s an open letter to my babies. Maybe they’ll read it someday.
Steven, Samuel and Amaya –
I love you, I love you, I love you. Before you I was a happy, satisfied person but, in an instant, you become the most important thing I’ve ever done. I work because I enjoy what I do, because it will make me a better mom and because it helps provide for our wonderful family but, when I am away from you, you are all in my heart and on my mind ALWAYS. We are never really apart.
If you need me, I will be there. I will move mountains, cross rivers – whatever it takes – to get to you. Not just now. ALWAYS.
During the day, when Daddy and I are at work, you’re being taken care of by someone wonderful, who loves you, too. She will feed you, sing you songs, tell you stories and make sure you feel safe and cared for. And when I come home at night and walk in the door to see you, it will be the happiest moment of my day. ALWAYS.
I love you, I love you, I love you.
-Mom
Being away is the hardest thing I do everyday. I hate the time that I am gone, but it makes you cherish the time you do have that much more. The hardest part is when they get older and they get into sports and have games or after school or even school activities. I am very lucky to have the ability to leave early and do work from my phone or email. Some people view having to answer an email or take a call as work infringing on your home life. If only it were that simple. I am grateful that technology helps me leave early so I can make it to a parent teacher conference or a football game or soon dance recitals.
It is a wonderful time, enjoy it, and know that in the end it is them that matter the most. 99.999% of work can wait 5 minutes while you hug them and ask them about their day.
Oh and FYI, everything will be fine.
Thank you, Kit. I agree about technology. It will allow me to leave work at 5pm so I can get home to the babies because I’ll be able to check back in after they’re asleep. I can’t imagine how much more difficult it would be if all of my work had to happen physically in my office.
I’m looking forward to getting through the next few days so I can settle into a new routine instead of focusing on what’s changing.
At the end of my maternity leave I remember thinking that I would never again get to spend an extended period of time with my kids. But, it’s been something that I’ve prioritized over the years. Where I used to take long weekends, now I take a week off several times a year because I know we all need that time together. I’m also trying to be off as much as possible over their school breaks. Having three weeks together for winter break + cold days was amazing.
Over the years I’ve wondered many times if I would be a SAHM if I could be, but the truth of the matter is, I’m a better mom as a working mom. But, I’ve definitely found that I have to have solid boundaries with work, and that sneaking away early occasionally does us all a world of good.
Good luck! You’ll find your way and figure out what works best for your family.