My paternity leave...

So, my paternity leave ends this Wednesday. Our son was born last August, but my wife went back to work at the beginning of the year. I'm truly fortunate because I was able to move my leave to coincide with when she went back to work. So, I've been off of work, taking care of my son since the start of the new year (the past two weeks) and it's been incredible. I have a whole newfound respect for stay-at-home parents and single parents. I have learned a whole bunch of new things for taking care of my son and daughter and trying to coordinate drop-offs, pick ups, diaper changes, feeding, doctor appointments, rides to after school activities, etc. I now have gained an appreciation for trying to do it all, while trying to keep the house in some form of shape and not a disaster. Sidenote: I wasn't able to keep the house in any form of neatness. It's a total mess. 

What I've learned most and am most thankful for is that it truly takes a village to raise a child. I've been thankful to be able to lean on my family and close friends for assistance for the duration. I've learned from watching my parents and how excited they are and how much they care. I've also been able to balance a few commitments and also was able to take my daughter to her after school programs which was really special.

I truly enjoyed each moment I was able to have with my kids and am looking forward to going back to my day job, knowing that I had this time to bond with my kids. It truly is a gift.