Monday marked my first day of leave. It's technically not maternity leave until the baby arrives, but my absence from the office has everything to do with being 37+ weeks pregnant.
At first, I had visions of working right up until the day I went into labor. Why waste a moment of leave if I'm not holding a newborn in my arms? But as summer plans fell into place at work (our building is undergoing a renovation and our office was relocated for the summer) and I realized the amount of time off I accrued, I began to consider what taking some time off before the little one arrives might be like.
Three days into this time off, I'm so thankful I did it. I approached this week somewhat cautiously, not wanting to send myself into labor by trying to accomplish everything on my to do list immediately. I am pacing myself with errands, cleaning and preparing parts of our home for the little one.
A friend graciously offered to come over and help me clean. I couldn't turn her down, but had a hard time determining what I want her to clean. What messy part of our home am I willing to share?
I've given myself permission to slow down. I have napped more than once. The bathroom is clean. I am nearly finished with a book read a book, which rarely happens. Baby laundry is done (for now). This morning, I am going to a friend's house for brunch. And the list goes on.
Slowing down to prepare my body and mind for this baby is more important than having a Pinterest worthy nursery. I've had visions of getting all the final details done in the baby's room, but that may or may not happen before the little one arrives. The necessary things are ready.
[I'm linking up with Anne]
I think it's so important to just slooow down sometimes! & definitely for you as your getting ready for that sweet babe. :)
ReplyDeleteP.S. those blocks are just too cute!
Beth, thanks for stopping by my blog today, I'm glad to have found you through the link-up! :)
ReplyDeleteGiving yourself some pre-newborn maternity leave actually sounds like a really healthy, positive choice. This in particular strikes me as just really wise: "Slowing down to prepare my body and mind for this baby is more important than having a Pinterest worthy nursery."
Yes! Enjoy it, and congratulations on your upcoming bundle! :)
Seems like a good week so far. Those blocks are adorable, something your little one will certainly love!
ReplyDeletesounds like a beautiful break for you! I think this is so wonderful for you!
ReplyDeletePerfect timing to rest and relax, and those blocks??? I love!
ReplyDeleteCarly
www.lipglossandcrayons.com
Such a great idea to rest your body, mind and spirit before the baby comes! Sleep won't be readily available for awhile afterwards, and I think it's great that you gave yourself permission to rest. So hard in this day and age!
ReplyDeleteI love that you took the time to paint. And just think, how much your little one will love them! Also, I never knew from past posts you wanted to work right up to the very last moment--just learned something new :)
ReplyDeleteWhat a blessing to have some time to rest before the baby comes! So glad you are allowing yourself to make it easy, I am sure that's what your body is asking of you right now. Enjoy your down time! And don't feel guilty for one second.
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