Role Reversal

It sure is different being a career mom and giving Shane the responsibility of the stay-at-home parent. But I really like it. I keep saying this, but I feel so in my element. I feel like I'm flourishing as a person now. I honestly don't seem as drained and frustrated as when I was home every day with Oliver. I loved it...but it was such a challenge for me, and I really learned a lot. Hopefully I'll be somewhat more prepared for the next kid. But I keep hearing that since every kid is so different there's no way to prepare and be ready for it.

Oliver is adjusting really well too. In fact, he's always been able to adapt to his surroundings rather easily. When I say goodbye he just smiles and watches me go. When I see him after work (Shane brings him to my office while I finish things up), he acts like it's all so normal. But he is a lot more cuddly that time of day. :)

Shane seems to really enjoy focusing so much time on Oliver. He's motivated to teach him and discipline him. I think he's realizing how much work it really is though. And that taking care of a kid and keeping house does not leave time for much else. Perhaps remodeling a home will not be as easy as we thought...it will probably be a longer process (which might be better anyway to sit on a house right now while the market is in this state).

All in all, we're really feeling good about the role-changes. Shane is so supportive of my work and says he can't believe how perfect it is for me...for us. We're moving into a small apartment this weekend that will buy us some time before we decide on a home to purchase. There are a lot of changes still ahead...and we're ready.

Ch-ch-ch-changes

Started my new full-time job at Union Gospel Mission this week. (and LOVING it)

Shane is a new full-time Dad.

Looking to buy a house for Shane to remodel. (currently staying with friends)

Celebrated Oliver's first birthday on Christmas Eve.

Celebrated Christmas with Shane's family and made my first homemade clam chowder.

Enduring Spokane's record snowfall. (Over 60 inches in December!)

Weaning Oliver. (only nursing at night now)

Trying to pretend I don't mind the whiney stage Oliver is going through. (is it a stage...?)

Feeling like time is completely flying right now and I can't possibly keep track of anything.

Totally did not celebrate the New Year...seemed boring this year. (fell asleep at 11:45, woke up at midnight to the neighbors' fireworks, gave Shane a kiss and fell back asleep.)

Kicking myself every day I forget to send out our Christmas cards. (yeah, I still haven't mailed them...they're stamped and in my purse and I keep forgetting they're there!)

Happy New Year. I still love you all even though I'm too busy right now to talk much to anyone.