Wednesday mornings...

Every Wednesday morning when I drop off Charlotte at my mother-in-law's house I have this view as I pull out of the driveway and head to work....

Some how...that view, gives me all the strength I need to get through the 9 hour day.

Precious.

Mr. Mom

So today at 12:00pm I'm going away to Arrowhead for 3 days and 2 nights with work. It's a Leadership and Teambuilding conference/retreat with about 40 other college employees. This will be the first time I'm leaving Charlotte over night. Daddy will be taking charge for the next 3 days. I know Raresh can handle it. He's so hands on and very helpful with Charlotte but I can't help but be a little bummed. She's so little and she's so much fun right now. A 10 month old doesn't forget her mother after 3 days does she? Raresh reassured me it's all going to be okay and that she won't forget me. I asked that he show her pictures of me while I'm gone and he laughed. I'm grateful that he knows her routine. He's not going to have too many surprises because of it.

The only reason I'm looking forward to this trip is because my dearest friend in the entire world Rachel, who also happens to work at Cerritos College, is also going ---and get this...she's my roommate. How fun will that be?---You can bet there will be stories galore, lots of Scrabble matches, and endless laughter. She's the perfect person to go with---because she won't let me get too home sick. Mija--get ready for some serious memory making!

Still---I already miss my little love bug. Charlotte, mommy loves you very much and I'm sure you'll have a wonderful time with your daddy. Honey--you are so amazing. Thank you for making me feel so comfortable about going. You seriously get the hubby of the year award---AGAIN!

I'll report how things went when I get back, Friday at 4:00pm. Hope we don't get snowed in---cause you can bet that I'll insist they air lift me out!

Some pictures of Charlotte

It's been a very long time since I blogged. I had a bunch of entries started but never got around to adding the photos and posting. I'm sure you've noticed I recently finished (okay 3 blogs in one day!)--Anyhow, here is my first post for September. Have I mentioned lately that I hate that being back at work? Sure... when I'm there I make the best of it but I just hate feeling like I'm drowning. I'm constantly going over and over the numerous things I need to pack for the next day, finish, pick up, clean, make, fold, read, buy, call, meet, order ..well you get the idea. It's been a very hard few weeks. I'm swamped at work, extremely tired when I get home, missing her so much it hurts, and just all around down. I know that it has to get better. It better get better! Never the less-I press on. Here are some recent photos of CJ. She always puts a smile on my face.


Thank God she loves her car seat!

I love these pictures of her looking away.

First day back at work

Well, black Monday came and went and I survived. It was horrible but I survived. I wanted to thank all of my family and friends for the thoughts and prayers they sent my way. It meant the world to me to know that you're all supporting me and encouraging me. I felt the Lord's presence with me all day. I really did. I was calm and very collected (much much better than I thought I would be) and I know that all the feelings of peace came from the Lord. I missed her like crazy but I pressed on. Only those moms that have to return to work will ever understand this feeling. Those of you that get to stay at home, cherish it---I know the days are long and it gets lonely or frustrating. I know that some of you long for "adult time"-- but remember this...work is definitely adult time but not my favorite kind. It's so hard to be away from your child and not being able to comfort them if they need it. Sure I'm blessed that family is watching Charlotte but I still want to be the one to do it. I'm sure it will get easier but right now--the thought of tomorrow makes me cringe. Please keep me in your prayers. I don't want to limit God's power--He can change my situation at any time. I have faith that it will all work out. It always does.

I love you baby Charlotte and you were greatly missed today!!!