Back To The Rat Race

I took my first steps to going back to work last Wednesday, and again today when I was called back to cover some Board meetings. Easing myself in, in a sense, before I officially start next Friday.

I was in denial for most of the week before I forced myself to get all my things sorted the night before, and packed that instantly recognisable Medela PIS backpack. On a sidenote, I’m embarrassed that it’s taken me having my 2nd child to realise you can pull the pump out of the bag. I’m on the look out for a nicer (and more chic) bag for pumping equipment, but for now, this will do.

It felt funny, putting on my work clothes and squeezing my feet back into my heels. Once I got to the office however, it was not difficult getting back in the groove. It felt like slipping back into a familiar routine. And yet, this second time round, my heart was still at home. I missed my babies — Noey’s chatter and Mimi’s gummy smiles. Maybe it was because I didn’t find my maternity leave as isolating an experience as I did the first time that the adult interaction or me-time in the office didn’t make up for the time away. Possibly it is because my office isn’t quite the place it was a couple of years ago.

Whatever the reason, it was a relief to come home to an excited Noey and a happy Naomi. They did really well on my first full day away. Mimi in particular was in good spirits the whole day, downing her bottles and bestowing smiles on all and sundry. Noey actually went down for his nap fairly easily, leading my brother to comment that it’s just me who is ineffective at getting him to nap. Hah. I felt like I was the only one having the separation anxiety!

I guess it’s a good thing I still only work part-time!