Is it really only the end of January? Okay, so I'm posting closer to mid-February - but for many reasons, it has already felt like such a long year! The new year brought on a lot of reflection - what it means to be a family, the dichotomy of being a great employee and a great mother at the same time (is it even possible?), and the neverending goal to get fit!
Family - Papa Wey took a long two week trip to Europe for work, leaving Mama and J to fend for ourselves (almost)! It is definitely different being on the other end of the travel stick, as I found myself missing hubby so, so much. Our family felt so incomplete without him here on the weekends, and to reflect to every night after a long day of work. Thankfully, Grandma Lie could spend some extra time with us post-holiday season, to keep us well-fed, in good company, and reminding us to not stress! Similarly, I think Papa missed the family too despite his busy and indulgent trip, and promised to take us next time! :) Each day, I appreciate and cherish the family that we are more and more.
Work/Life Balance - let's just say, the balance is slowly tipping one way. I've found myself going through more introspection about what I want out of my job, while at the same time, embracing those precious 2 hours I get to spend with J each evenings and on the weekends. Despite being back at work for almost 3 months, my heart breaks just a little every morning when I say goodbye, and even when I turn him in for bed each night. Will I ever adjust or figure this out? I guess we will see this year...
Getting fit - UGH. Baby weight. UGH. Jiggly arms. UGH. It's been impossible getting back into a regular exercise routine during the week. On the weekends, Papa and I try to trade off workout times with each other, but I think to really get down to my original weight, I just have to try and squeeze in more workouts! Those stinkin' last few pounds! And with work stress and pressure, I definitely can't help sneaking in that extra bite of sweet each day! OOF! Oh repeat new year's resolution, will this be the year?
As for little J - well - he is such a star! He brings a joy to us that we've never known, and it is so amazing how he learns all of his new tricks on his own. How does he do that?! In J's 8th month, he has:
- discovered his man parts. yup, bath time is even *more* fun!
- started schooching! he is still refining his motor skills to get to a formal crawl, but in the mean time, he is rolling, schooching, reaching, and stretching to get where he wants to go!
- started getting a little stranger anxiety. he is generally a very happy and friendly baby, but there he has his off-moments when someone just doesn't rub him the right way, and he'll break out in a sporadic cry!
- growing teeth! the first one is here, and the second one is starting to show itself....
- copying our actions. from squishy faces, to clapping, to noises, he is a perky, talkative, hyper little man!
- developed an affinity for wheeeeeel offfff fortune! after dinner time, j enjoys some trivia and shouts out letters with momma - "e!" - "i!" - "j!" -"L!"
- started sitting up on his own. he goes from downward dog to.... seated baby!
Here is a photo summary of the Wey's January!