Week Seven: Meternity leave

I think it is interesting that this story (Meternity) is coming out as my maternity leave is completed. And it is humorous to read of the insights this woman offers and what she believes comes from an extended time away from work.

Love the little snicker
hiding under her carrier cover

Heart = melted

She defines “meternity” leave as "a sabbatical-like break that allows women and, to a lesser degree, men to shift their focus to the part of their lives that doesn’t revolve around their jobs" with maternity leave as "socially mandated time and space for self-reflection."

I just love this view
 all buckled in and up for an adventure

I don't begrudge her wanting time away from work or hardworking men/women wanting a sabbatical -which I do believe offers a mental reprieve. 

The timing is simply ironic because just yesterday I was thinking how little time I seem to have for "me time" and self-reflection. When our little one is awake, time obviously revolves around keeping her entertained, clean and dry, calming her down from crying, changing her onesie (again!), etc. For those sweet moments when Mike and I might have gotten her down for a quick spell, time magically opens up for a few minutes to take a shower, grab a bite to eat, enjoy quiet solace.  It is like a game, however, because you never quite know when she'll stir and whether you want to launch into an ambitious task (i.e., a shower!) when you can't cease and desist immediately. 

After a mini-meltdown, we took a nap in the
Target parking lot until she could collect herself

I was reminded of a commercial I saw that speaks to this.  No "time off" as parents! :) I say this as Mike and I both awoke at 4AM today and wanted some time just to have quiet - probably because we crashed at 8PM last night and miraculously got some great rest last night.  The maternity leave has been awesome for recovery and bonding with Kylie - but it wasn't, as I thought/hoped, a time to be productive whilst home for several weeks.  I am looking forward to getting back into the swing of things.  And I'm anxious to see what the next mini-phase of life brings in connecting with her in a new way. 

Quick Costco adventure

Bath time!

So cute and snuggly

"Cheese"

Kylie is enjoying more time with her grandparents these days - both with mine who came down this past week for a few days, and with Mike's who are here in town.  She is so relaxed with them all and enjoys being snuggled and sung to.  It is a nice reprieve for Mike and me. And a gift that she'll have so much time in her life to connect with her grandparents.  I know I loved every moment with mine.  Who doesn't like to be spoiled?! 

I was privileged to attend the NC Preaching Festival as one of my favorite preachers, the Rev. Tom Berlin, was one of the speakers.  It ended up being quite the long day - and my first extended time away from home - but a joy to be with friends and hear some incredible insights about preaching and preparing a sermon.

How about a zillion photos of her eating :)

Happy birthday!!

Along for the ride

We did some shopping yesterday - fun to get out of the house and get a few things.  It was Mike's mom's birthday dinner, so Kylie picked out a card and gift card to TJ Maxx.  It was a big hit!  It was a gorgeous day, and I would have loved a walk - but I did something to my knee and now its really sore.  So we'll take it easy with some retail therapy. :)

Down from $220 - how's $20?! :)

Her onesie says "I Love that you're my dad"

Spring has sprung!