Best of Both Worlds

I've been dreading writing the back to work blog like this one from 2008 or this one  from 2009.  This really really was the best summer of my life.  We did so many fun things.  As a mom I enjoyed my kids more this summer than any other time.  We could pack up and be at the beach all in 15 minutes.  They are both old enough to give their opinions, walk without strollers, head out without a diaper bag.  As long as we had water bottles we were good to go.  Nap schedules were more flexible than ever.  It was truly truly an amazing summer that I have about 2,000 pictures to squeeze into a digital summer album so we'll always remember our trips to the beach, making water balloons, enjoying the sea creatures at Underwater World, all the exciting things at the Children's Museum, the fun walks around the zoo, the spontaneous lunches with Papa. . .the list could go on and on. 

But my favorite part of the summer was our mornings together.  That time from 6:30-10:00.  That's the time we cuddled in 'the big bed,' we all learned to love Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, we usually had two breakfasts in that time, we baked in the morning - nothing like seeing a two and four year old cracking eggs, pouring oil, stirring batter and licking spoons all by 8:10am!  We made a lot of art in the morning.  From a spattering of liquid glue and many many sequins to noodle necklaces, they are so creative. 

I so loved my summer with them.  Spending virtually waking minute with them. 

But today I headed back to work.  Got my classroom organized and met with my student teacher.  Then it hit me - I've got the best of both worlds.  I love my kids so much and I love to spend time with them more than anything.  I love my job so much I usually don't even think of it as a job.  I get a week off for Christmas, a week of in the spring and all summer off.  I only have to drive four miles to school.  Our kids love their new daycare and can't wait to go back tomorrow. 

Sure, I shed a few tears this morning.  But I was the only one who did.  That means I've got the best of both worlds because our kids are happy and healthy and will adjust well to this change.  Soon Victoria will be in preschool four afternoons a week and we'll all be back into the routine.  It's fun to be out of the routine but it's good for all of us to be back in it. 

If we didn't have the routine most months of the year our summer wouldn't have been as amazing as it was.

That is the best of both worlds for sure.