We made it. In one piece. I had heard so many things about “The Fourth Trimester” and at first never gave it any thought, but it is a real thing! If you have read any of my previous blog entries, you will know Maisie and I had a tough go at life for a while. However, as I eased myself back into work after 12 weeks off, she eased herself into a routine and it has been smoother sailing.

Now, I am not saying I have an easy baby. This girl fights day-sleep, she is alert and wants to know what is going on around her, and we still are dealing with the witching hour. Yet, this girl is now content on playing in a bounce chair, sleeping in a swing, sitting in her highchair while we cook food and sleeping pretty much through the night. I thank my lucky stars we are moving into greener pastures.

Of course, this all happened the week before I went back to work. She has been a gem for her Grammy during the week, something that I stressed about before I went back. Speaking of going back to work, the transition went better than I thought. I like my job, I knew Maisie was safe and I went off to work without any tears. The only time, in the two weeks since I went back, that I got upset is when she was awake and alert when I left. Most of the time, she is still sleeping when I leave so it makes walking out the door much easier. It has been fun to anticipate coming home and seeing her face as I walk in the door. She babbles constantly and I feel like it’s her way of telling me about her day, I love that.

Routine helps. Even when I am not home, I know when she is being fed, how much and when I can expect her naps. I think this also helps her to know what to expect no matter who is watching her. The routine has helped me figure out the cries – tired, hungry or dirty diaper. And the routine has helped her become a great night sleeper. *Fingers Crossed* It stays that way.

Now that I am out of the Fourth Trimester I get asked, “Ready for another?” Nope. I am not. I doubt I will ever have another baby. I am sure Daniel would love another – he says we make a really cute kid, I agree, but I do not want to ever have to go through that newborn hell again, nor do I want to tempt fate with another baby. So many people have told me I will change my mind, but I am standing pretty firm on this one. Those first 12 weeks took its toll on me and if I had another child, I would be afraid to go through that WITH Maisie around. It just wasn’t a pretty time. So my girl is very special, she’s it.

I am looking forward to what the next few months bring – sitting up, crawling and whatever other surprises she has in store for us. It seems like every day she’s doing something new.