First Day Back

Today marked my first day back from maternity leave. I left little Ryleigh laying on my robe, as she enjoys the soft fabric and mama's scent much like Jack (that's how he ended up with his HUGE blanket). I kissed her good bye and fought back some tears feeling like I shouldn't start my day that way. 

I got to school and my sweet partner brought me a Sonic Diet Dr. Pepper with vanilla...my favorite! She's the best. I much needed the caffeine boost after Ryleigh woke up at 1:30, 4:30, and 6:00.  The kids were as expected. They were happy to see me, but also hyper due to the COLD weather and readiness for Christmas break. It was nice to feel missed and appreciated by them. 

I was able to pump during my planning period and lunch with ease and Ryleigh ate out of her bottle well. Yay! We had another meeting after school...ugh...which got me to Ryleigh just in time for her next feeding. 

I had done fine all day, squelching down some tears while pumping, thinking about how this is when she'd normally be in my arms...thinking about how I'd normally be hearing her squeals as she swollowed...thinking about how I usually stroke her soft hair...thinking of her sweet smell.  I did make it through the day without any tears shed. THEN, I got to my mom's to pick her up and she smiled the LONGEST and LARGEST that I've ever seen. She seemed to even be trying to laugh. Jack screamed as I walked through the door as well and greeted me with a HUMONGOUS hug! 

I know God is faithful and I will someday be able to spend more days with these precious angels, but for now I must be faithful to do as he has planned for me at this moment. He knows the inner most desires of my heart and feels my pain. After all, he had to part from his own son for a short while as well. How sweet the reunion must have been. I know my time will come.