Re: Adjusting to Maternity Leave question - for NB Magazine
This question makes me laugh, as I wondered the same thing, and boy was I in for a surprise! I lined up projects to do and planned to spend lots of time practicing my guitar. I pretty much spent the 3 months nursing, pumping (I had some problems in the beginning, though), changing diapers, trying to get baby to nap (that was rough!), trying to eat and get some sleep myself. And my DH works from home, so he was even there to help out when I needed it. I don't think I picked up my guitar once. I did get about 5 minutes of knitting in a few nights, so I now have half a sleeve finished on a sweater that I don't think I'll ever get to finish. I watched a lot of TV while nursing and kept beating myself up about it (like I should be doing something more productive). I regret not just relishing in that relaxation! First-time mommyhood is about second-guessing everything, I think.
But I do have to say maternity leave was the greatest -- I loved all the time with my baby and really had a hard time coming back to work. Don't worry about filling your time, because it will be filled for you. But make sure to enjoy it. I loved being able to play on the floor with my little girl when she wasn't nursing and looking down at how peaceful she was when she'd finally take a nap. I miss having all that time to be with her.
Mom to my sweet little "Pooper," born 10/12/11, and "Baby Brother," born 6/23/2014, and married to heavy metal husband. Working more than full-time, making healthy vegetarian meals for family, and trying to keep up with exercise routine.