our new normal

We're slowly getting settled into our new normal.  For years, actually, for our entire married life, I have worked from home and traveled a fair amount.  And while I probably complained all the time about traveling and my work schedule, there were definite pros along with the cons about my previous work situation.  But now that I'm commuting to work everyday, we're adjusting to our new normal.  Here are some interesting tidbits and observations that have been floating around my mind these past weeks:

* I haven't spent more than 2.5 months straight at home which means I haven't been with either Tony or Ryan or even Anna for more than 2.5 months at a time.

* I do think traveling makes the heart grow fonder.  When I would travel, Tony and I would talk every night on the phone for an hour or so.  We would often have conversations that we normally don't have when we are caught up with the daily routine.

* Even though I traveled frequently, when I was working from home I would spend a lot of time with Ryan since he only went to daycare twice a week.  I miss that.

* Now I get up at 5:30am and rarely see the kids before I leave for work.  I see them for a few hours when I get home until they go to bed around 7:30pm but most of that time is spent feeding, bathing and getting them ready for bed.  I know many working moms are probably saying, "welcome to my world" and I take my hat off to you.  All I'm saying is this is a huge adjustment for me and my family.  We'll get used to it, but I miss my kids (and Tony of course).

But I have to say that I LOVE my new job.  I'm still on a consulting basis, but I am crossing my fingers and praying that it will turn into a permanent situation.  I love the people I work with, the environment is such an improvement from my last situation and I am loving what I am doing.

So, new normal, I embrace you.  It may take me a bit of time to get used to you, but I embrace you.