I am supposed to be excited that I’m going to the French Quarter Festival in New Orleans this weekend. But I’m not. Because right now I’m sitting in a hotel room for the 3rd week in a row and I have another business trip next week. So instead of being excited, I’m feeling guilty that I will only see the kids on Thursday this week. It’s a good thing we had a good weekend together last week!
I read this article in the Washington Post today about moms who go back 60% or 80% in order to spend more time with their kids. After a Baby, Full Time or Part?
It all makes me wonder how you even measure it. I suppose what I’m really measuring is how much enjoyment I’m missing. Because I’m sure Caleb is ok and happy. He loves day care and he loves Daddy. And while I’m sure he misses me, when I get home, we always have to reiterate that we don’t have cookies for breakfast. (Frank says they never have cookies for breakfast but Caleb lets me know that’s what he expects!)
And do Dads feel guilty? Because 99% of them go back full time! (I actually think women are lucky that it’s more acceptable for them to work part-time or stay at home.)
Luckily for me, I don’t usually travel this much and my normal work/life balance – work Mon-Thurs with an occasional business trip – is one I enjoy and Frank and the kids seem to do alright with.