It's over

The day has come, and my maternity leave is officially over. A lot of people have asked about whether or not it is harder the second time. I have been saying yes, as I have been pretty sad, more sad than I remember with Bridger. I think maybe I was so nervous last time and this time I don't have the nerves just the sadness. I have been sad about missing time with kids and sad that our family life will go from rather crazy to utter chaos. However, the actual first day back was much easier this time. It was so much less overwhelming to get everything together and navigate pumping and things. I also was much less worried. I knew Larsen would have a bit of a rough go as she is not taking the bottle well, but I also know that once we settle into a regular sitter she will bond with them and enjoy her time there as well. I also know that I will make it through the sadness and we will figure out our new routine and try to soak in every sweet moment we can when we are not at work. In the end I guess it is both harder and easier the second time. It is also nice that this time I can ease back in. Last time I had to go to class and had much longer days. This time I can do some short days and work from home more so that is a big help. Bridger seemed very perplexed that Mommy was going back to work. He sort of remembered me working when we talked about, but 3 months is a long time in his world so for all he knew I didn't go to work. I thought he would be much more sad about it, but he was very matter of fact that he was going back to school. His positive attitude, the very patient sitter we have, and Larsen doing pretty well made the first day as good as could be expected. We did try to soak up as much fun as we could before I went back so last week was pretty full. A little recap is below. If you are thinking that Bridger looks tan and his hair is lighter it is because it is. He loves to be outside and sunscreen only does so much. At least we know he isn't Vitamin D deficient. :)

We have been hanging out at the gym pool. Larsen went for her first swim. It was a little cold for her, but she enjoyed being part of the action.
We celebrated Matt's birthday last weekend since he was working on his actual birthday. Bridger helped make his cake and had picked out the birthday balloons. Bet you couldn't tell he did that!

For the 4th we spent the morning in Annapolis. No we don't have any pictures of the sights...just Bridger having fun on the playground. Afterwards we had hamburgers and watched fireworks from the deck. Grandma and GrandDad enjoyed their new little firecracker the most though!


I wish we had more pictures of the church picnic. It was a blast. It was such a wonderful way to end my maternity leave as it was very relaxing and we had a great time getting to know other families in the church. Bridger had a blast at the pool (He is finally starting to really get into it and even went underwater on his own this time...on his own terms which is usually how it goes). Larsen snoozed and people watched which are two of her favorite activities.