It's Over

It is with a heavy heart and mixed emotions that I write this entry. Today was my last day as a full time, stay at home Mommy. My maternity leave has come to an end and tomorrow I go back to my 'other' full time job.

I cannot believe that a year has already come and gone. I had so many big plans for projects I would complete this year. Things I'd do, places I'd go and how often I'd go to the gym so I could be in even better shape than before I got pregnant. I was so naive. I had no idea that even just having a shower every day would be a great achievement.

However, what I did accomplish is way more important than any of the things I thought I'd do. I managed to give birth to a beautiful, healthy baby girl, love her with every part of my heart and soul and raise her, so far, to become an incredible little person. I had no idea that I would be so content to spend hours just watching her sleep, eat, play and discover the world around her. We have had so much fun together and she has taught me some very valuable lessons. I can't imagine not being with her for the many more 'firsts' to come. I guess I'll just have to convince her to save them for evenings and weekends.

Although I am sad that I no longer get to spend every day with Bradyn, I am looking forward to going back to work. I miss my work family, my clients and having a life outside of Bradyn. (Did I also mention that I'm looking forward to going to the bathroom by myself, without two little eyes watching me or two little arms stretched out towards me, wanting to be picked up?)

I want to thank all of my family and friends who helped me make it through this year with some semblance of sanity. Your support is and will continue to be priceless. The girls in my Mommy Group were true life savers. If any of you ladies have or are going to have babies, go find yourself a Mommy Group. Your friends and family love you unconditionally and are always there for you, but those Mommies are right there in the trenches with you and from them, you quickly learn that what you're thinking and feeling is normal.

Most importantly, I want to thank my wonderful husband Kevin. He has proven time and again what an amazing husband and great Daddy he is. I know that things got pretty intense at times over the past year, but no matter how awful I was, especially to him, he stood by me and helped me get through it. I am truly blessed to have him in my life. I know I don't tell you often enough Kevin, but I really do love you... more than I can ever tell you.

As I head off to bed to hopefully get some sleep, I close this chapter and look forward to what tomorrow brings. If the next year is as exciting as this one has been, I can't wait.