So It Begins...

This is my last official week of maternity leave. I go back to work a week from tomorrow. I cried a little about it today. The past 12 weeks have by far been the best 12 weeks of my life up to this point (with 2 girls, I'm sure eventually I'll have some other wonderful weeks ahead of me). But seriously - best 12 weeks of my life. And cuddling for an afternoon nap with Hadley made me cry. I'll still get those times with her. I'm still keeping my Fridays off and I'll have Saturdays and Sundays with the girls. Plus the occasional vacation day with them. But I couldn't help crying. My days have been so wonderful. I get to spend time with both girls, then I get alone time with Hadley in the afternoons while Avery is at school. The times with that baby are sweet because it only seems fair that she gets me alone sometimes since Avery has had me alone for a whole 3 years and a few days. We mainly just cuddle and nap during those times. Sometimes we shop (she loves to ride in the car and be pushed around, so she gets a good nap in during those times). And lately we've also been playing a bit, which is fun. It's really fun to see her developing. They develop so fast at this age. It's amazing.
But alas I'm back to work in one week. Really savoring this week. And really trying to remember that although I'd rather be at home, work isn't that bad and the money is always a plus, right?? It means more outings with the girls, like our upcoming Toy Story 3 on Ice event Friday night (excluding Hadley on that one, she isn't quite ready for that yet). But it will be fun to do more things like that with the girls. Santa probably has some pretty good ideas about fun tickets he can buy us for such events.
I caught Avery's sore throat Friday night which I was pretty upset about, thinking it would lead over into my last week at home. But the good news is that it only lasted a few days and Hadley has yet to catch it (hoping it stays that way).
I have a major feeling this week is going to fly by. And next Sunday's post may be a lot less upbeat - by then, I may be sobbing and refusing to go back. :) We'll see how this last wonderful week goes.