Fun Images

Omi picked up a Cat in the Hat onsie for Nola and here she is showing it off. Check out the 3rd picture of her and Fluffy (Oma's dog)...too funny how they are both sitting.

March 3rd

Strange title, I know. In two weeks from yesterday, or 13 days from today, I am returning to work. I originally scheduled my return for Feb. 1st, but as that date approached I knew I needed more time. First it was 2 more weeks, but as it turned out, I went for an additional month. March 3rd is the big day!

Yes, I have a wonderful and supportive boss. In fact, it was he who reminded me that I was entitled to more time if needed. Being away from work for this amount of time (it will be 3 months) was quite difficult for me. Over the past 10 years I have only taken one 'proper' vacation of two weeks and that was a cruise in 2004. Other than that, I usually just take a Friday and Monday off to extend my weekends or add a few days to a holiday. I know this is not ideal or healthy and I certainly deserve to take my vacation time and actually go somewhere to escape, but I just haven't done that...yet!

When I traveled to pick up Little Squirt, it took me a good month or more to finally relax and free my mind of work. I worried and wondered about so many things such as: will my programs run smoothly while I'm away?; will the 4 folks covering for me make a mess of things? (if any of you are reading this, so sorry - I do know I left my tasks in perfectly capable and professional hands); will I be missed? The list goes on. So, I think that is why I felt that I needed a bit more time, and I am happy and thankful that I was able to delay the return date.

I'm really looking forward to returning to work. I know it will be rough and challenging for the first couple of weeks, but I feel that I have a new and fresh outlook since my daughter is finally home. And I'm anxious to get into the groove of how my, rather 'our', life will be.

I'm curious to hear how those who returned to work have managed. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to share.

Before I close this post, I do want to send a warm and heartfelt 'THANK YOU' to Rebeca, Robin, Kay, and Jim for covering my programs and to Brian for your continued support and words. You've each allowed me to spend quality time with my new baby.

And now for just a couple of pictures -

New Friends

Nola and I ventured over to the west coast of Florida on Sunday...Marco Island to be exact. This was our very first mini road-trip together. (believe it or not, this was Nola's first time visiting the beach!) We had the wonderful privilege of meeting and spending the day with Gen, John, and baby Michael of 'More than we could ask or imagine'. It was a fabulous day and I loved being in the company of such a warm and fun-loving family.

Their son, Michael, is definitely one happy-go-lucky baby boy. He has the most beautiful eyes and smile. And so full of giggles, too! (especially when his dad makes funny faces ;) I have to agree with Gen, our time together was much too short and so I look forward to more special times in the future.

And now for some pictures...

Our babies - Michael & Nola

Beautiful Family Beach Girls - Gen with Nola
Stroller Pals

Beach Girls again

Me & My Little Squirt