Days with Ellie

I guess I would be considered a "part time stay at home mom" to some, which drives me a little crazy because being a mom, no matter how much you do or do not work, is a full time job all by itself.  Times a million.  Regardless, I am home two extra days a week now where it's just me + my little girlfriend.  I love these days with Ellie, but they are by no means glamorous - there are days when I literally get nothing done because she won't sleep or will cry anytime I put her down, and there are definitely some days I totally want to cry with her.  While some days are long (to say the least), when I think about my day as I'm going to sleep each night, it's the good times that stand out the most.  And, at the end of the day, if we're both still alive and well, I think I've accomplished the biggest thing on my to-do list - taking care of this tiny little human.  I feel very lucky to get to spend those extra two days a week at home, and always look forward to our next day together.  

"You will never have this day again with your children.  Tomorrow they'll be a little older than they were today.  This day is a gift.  Just breathe, notice, study their faces and little feet.  Pay attention.  Relish the charms of the present.  Enjoy today, it will be over before you know it."

I don't want it to seem like I'm tearing my hair out every single day I'm at home, because that is definitely not the case - there are SO many good times mixed in with the slightly frustrating times.  I think we all just need a little reminder sometimes that we're doing the best we can do and should be enjoying this crazy ride called motherhood.  I love this girl to pieces and feel so blessed to be her mom - even on the craziest of days. ;)