Since Billy is still recovering from his torn Achilles & subsequent surgery, he hasn't worked in about 6 weeks. He decided that when he got to feeling a little better he wanted to take Kaylin down to Albany to visit his parents. I reluctantly agreed because I knew it would be good for them; knew the grandparents would love the visit, and I could feel myself needing a break. We have also been trying to wean without much success. (she could go all day without nursing, but as soon as we got home from work, she'd think the buffet was open for business.) We figured that a few days apart from each other might help in that department too. So, on Thursday morning, Billy and Kaylin headed down South while I went to work. I got teary eyed when I looked in my rearview mirror out of habit and didn't see Kaylin or her carseat. I made it through the day, but really didn't know what to do with myself when I got home from work. The house was so quiet and still. I had planned to go out with a girlfriend, but... I didn't realize just how much my boobs would hurt (my Dad is probably reading this...ha!) but OH. MY. GOD. It was like I'd gotten a terrible boob job - they were HUGE and rock hard. I popped some ibuprofen, put cabbage leaves and ice packs in my sports bra, and laid on the couch for the majority of the time. I was so glad to see Kaylin again Saturday night. She was not a big fan of me not nursing her early Sunday morning, but we made it. Since then, I have put her to sleep twice without nursing. Yay! I have loved nursing my sweet little love, but it's time for us to move on now.
I also learned a valuable lesson - I need to take more time to myself. I will, and I won't feel guilty about it. I think if I do, I'll be a better (more patient!) mom. I think I put a lot of pressure on myself to take perfect care of Kaylin, be a perfect teacher at school, and keep a perfectly clean house, etc. I think this "time off" reminded me to take better care of me or I won't be a whole lot of help to anyone. So, point taken. :)
Today is my second Mother's Day and I had a wonderful day. I got flowers, 2 cards and chocolate chip pancakes. Yum! After nap time, we had a picnic at a park near the house. We let Kaylin play on the playground, but there weren't any swings (her favorite). Oh well, she still had a good time. We had a good rest of the day at home. Thanks to Billy and Kaylin for making Mother's Day so special. I am so lucky to be the mom to such a special little girl! 
I love you, monkey.
