Been home for 2 months with my second kid and honestly it's been incredible. Getting to drop my oldest at school, spend mornings with the newborn, make lunch for the family. Going back to the office full time Monday and I'm genuinely dreading it. The guilt is already setting in even though I know we need the income. Anyone else struggle with this transition?
The transition back is real. I was a mess those first few weeks. What helped me was planning something special for the first Friday night home with the kids, gave me something to look forward to and kept me present instead of wallowing.
We're still early in our journey with a 6 month old so I don't have the perspective yet but I'm already dreading when my leave ends. How did you manage the first few days back mentally?
Two months sounds like a dream. Cherish it. I had 6 weeks with my oldest and it went way too fast. The return to the office hit different after that taste of being home.
Going back after experiencing that with your second kid is tough because you know exactly what you're missing. Is your job flexible at all or are you locked into a strict schedule?
Oh man two months sounds amazing but I get the dread. Going back to work after being home is rough. Just remember you got this and the structure will actually help you appreciate the time at home even more.
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I feel this in my soul. Went back after paternity leave and the guilt is real. The good news? You'll find ways to make it work. It gets easier but it never stops hurting a little.