This past week, Tommy was out-of-town for a work conference, leaving me at home with Jaden by myself.

In the weeks leading up to Tommy’s trip, I was a little nervous about being on my own with Jaden. When I first learned about the trip, being the planner/worrier that I am, I immediately started thinking through all the things I would have to do on my own. I had to force myself to relax and stop thinking about all the “what ifs” that could happen. I suppose most of nervousness mainly came from the thought of taking care of Jaden and remembering to do all of Tommy’s normal tasks, plus my own. Between Tommy and myself, we’ve sort of established roles or duties since having Jaden. I typically handle everything related to Jaden and managing our meals and family activities and Tommy seems to magically accomplish all this stuff around the house. Sometimes I don’t know how he gets so much done. Of course, we step up in other areas when needed. Our system work for us and I appreciate our team work.

Well the week of Tommy’s trip finally arrived and you know what, I was nervous for nothing. Throughout the week, I managed to accomplish all that I needed to do around the house and take care of Jaden’s needs. Doing it all just required some early mornings and planning ahead. I woke up 30 minutes early each day to make sure I could get ready before Jaden woke up. I ironed all my clothes for work on Sunday night. I made my lunch every night before bed. I also meal prepped in the evening if I knew I needed to cook dinner the next day. Doing those things definitely helped with managing everything I had to do.

I did encounter one issue with Jaden, his sleep! There were several nights where he woke up in the middle of the night and was inconsolable. Each time it took over an hour for him to settle down and fall back asleep. Other nights, he just didn’t want to go to bed at all. Then some days, he just woke up too early. I have no idea what caused all the sleep disruption. Maybe it was teething or maybe he was suffering from some real separation anxiety. Whatever the case, all of this made for one tired mama, but we survived.

I’m thankful for the family and friends who came by to visit or who called/texted to check on us. It’s reassuring to know other people are thinking of you.

In all, this past week reminded me how blessed I am to not have to do this parenting thing alone. Even though there are times when I wish Tommy would do more of this or that, the week without dad helped me to have a greater appreciation for all that Tommy does on a daily basis and our partnership.

Let’s just say Jaden and I are happy to have Daddy home!