It is just a matter of days, maybe a week or two until the baby comes and as the day gets closer I realize how lucky I am. A few weekends ago my dear friends threw a luncheon for one of my fabulous friends and myself. I could not believe all of the wonderful gifts I received and what a truly lovely afternoon it was of good food and friends. I am beyond lucky. Then, some of my co-workers took me out for lunch and gave me a huge bag of gifts – not for the baby, but for my older son so he didn’t feel left out. What a fantastic idea, he was beyond thrilled when I came home from work and he got to open a present. I was really touched by the gesture.

Over the past few weeks my family and I have been showered with gifts, in the literal sense, but truly it’s not about the gifts – it’s about the people and the hearts they came from. I am lucky to have a network of other mothers and friends that care so much for my family. Yes, working and raising a family is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do and sometimes it all seems to be too much, and then you realize you aren’t alone – I am surrounded by friends and co-workers all in the same boat. We are all working to support our families, set the best example we know how and to fulfill something in ourselves. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t looking forward to having a few months away from work and having the time to focus on my family, but I will miss the camaraderie of my co-workers for those few months. I find myself frequently asking for advice and seeking comfort in the common stories of tough mornings and evenings that go way too fast. Thank you for all of the gifts in my life.