Mr. Mom

Although I didn’t go back to work after having my daughter, I never lost the desire to learn and use my brain for things outside of my mom role (though that’s plenty!). I started an internship a few weeks ago and am really enjoying every minute! Even though I miss my little girl, I am so happy she is getting some quality time with her dad. My husband takes his days off during the week, so he has been assuming all parenting tasks during the day for consecutive days in a row. We all know how long days can be while cooped up inside with baby, and he has been handling it like a champ.
I have to admit after six wonderful months waking up with my daughter and spending all day together, the transition from being at home to being anywhere else was difficult. I found comfort in knowing she was with her father (and my mom a few days a week), and that time together would only serve to benefit their relationship and bond.
The first few days of waking up and leaving the two of them blissfully watching “Good Morning America” felt painful. I was jealous of the sleepy cuddles, feeding her the bottle he was making and her sweet morning disposition she always wakes up with. I reminded myself as I locked the door behind me that it was so valuable for the two of them to spend time together, and I am blessed he eagerly spends his days off with her.
By the time I would arrive home, I would be greeted with two big smiles and one happy baby. She LOVES being with her dad! I’m not even sure how much I was missed. If I am being honest, I think he does the “Mr. Mom” thing so well. He cares for our daughter and manages to keep the rest of our life relatively on track, too. I come home to a cleaner home than what I left, and last night he had dinner ready when I walked through the door. What? I can’t remember the last time I did the same thing.
For any mom thinking about leaving your kid(s) home with dad for longer than an occasional run to the grocery store, I encourage you to do it. It has helped Matt develop a genuine confidence in his ability to parent. He has adopted an entire system personal to his relationship with Bellamy. They have their own routine together and are developing their own memories, too. We are still navigating a rhythm that best fits our family, but it’s so nice knowing she is reaping the benefits of quality one-on-one time with both parents.