2 months and counting

The dreaded return to work is coming and I can't do anything to stop it... Two more months of long baby days, afternoon naps and weeks blending into months. I've absolutely loved (nearly) every moment of being home with baby and even though I've attempted to put off thinking of the eventual return to work, it's been in my mind every week since he was born.

So many preparations, so many unknowns... Childcare, nursing after my return, how will he react? I reached a turning point a couple months ago when I realized that with me going back to work (at VIA I'll be away a minimum of 3.5 days at a time) it will give Chris a chance to play a new, bigger role in Jude's life. I look forward to seeing their relationship change as he relies more on papa for day to day care. I just don't know what to expect as far as changes go in our relationship! Will Jude be happy to see me when I get back, will he be angry, upset and clingy or will he push me away? I just don't know!!!

The upside is that it'll only be five months before I'm laid off to spend all winter with my babe plus the long days in between trips. Dreaming of gardens and grass, summer playdates, camping and beaches...

A few months ago Jude started trying to sneak his fingers into his mouth while nursing. It was funny and annoying all at once as he broke suction and was continually relatching on. I would pull his thumb or fingers (yes, more than one) out of the side of his mouth chastising him for playing instead of eating. One time I let him play around for a bit and he actually figured out how to suck his thumb while still continuing to nurse! Now it's regular occurrence that I'll notice him chomping away at a thumb or finger while eating. What a funny dude.

Spent Monday walking around in the sunshine and ended up at the park. What a beautiful day! Jude crawled around in the leaves, grabbing branches and ferns, watching butterflies converge on our tree and bugs floating in the river, crawling intently towards two puppies who were already halfway across the park. Then we met the Aunty Mimi for more walks and Forks dining. All in all 5 hours out on foot! My poor tootsies are not used to all this walking and after a visit from the other Aunty (Leona), I laid up on the couch watching online tv.

Then we've had a busy week of baby groups and playdates. Today is the first day we have nothing planned - will see how the morning shapes up and may hit up the pool later on.