I have new respect for any family with a shift schedule. The last few weeks Birch has been on his OB/GYN rotation and it has been tougher than I expected. I had planned on long hours; what I wasn't prepared for was the inconsistency. Some days he was gone 5:00am-7:00pm, other days he was off after being at the hospital the night before and a few days we didn't see him at all.
I've realized how much I like a predictable schedule: morning run, breakfast, shower/Sesame Street, leave the house, lunch, naps, etc. With Birch's different hours I found that I was always changing plans: waiting around so the kids could see him or leaving at odd times so he could sleep. I'm learning to be more flexible.
One nice thing is I'm pretty good at entertaining myself. I don't mind being alone with my kids, as long as I have some reason to leave the house most days. We've also done some fun things with friends.
I've realized how much I like a predictable schedule: morning run, breakfast, shower/Sesame Street, leave the house, lunch, naps, etc. With Birch's different hours I found that I was always changing plans: waiting around so the kids could see him or leaving at odd times so he could sleep. I'm learning to be more flexible.
One nice thing is I'm pretty good at entertaining myself. I don't mind being alone with my kids, as long as I have some reason to leave the house most days. We've also done some fun things with friends.
We planted (and built) a garden in the backyard.
Sunny day at the pumpkin patch.
Picking apples at Apple Annie's Orchard. Who needs that picking tool when you've got a stick?
Notice the long sleeves and jackets. It was finally in the 60's for a few days. Very cold, right?
10 comments:
Camille - I found your blog through Jen Seamons. How the hec are you? Your family is SO cute! It's fun to see your pictures. Amber (Wright) Despain
I love your idea for planting a garden! We had the grand idea of trying to use the actual dirt in our back yard. Yeah, we couldn't even get a shovel in it. But we may have to try your idea. Very smart. And I love Haley's witch costume. She looks so cute!
I hate never knowing what the next day will hold! I dream about days of consistancy when he is finally a practicing physician but who knows? I could just be kidding myself.
I echo everything you said! Since residency started NOTHING has been consistent. Sean has a schedule for each rotation that I cling to hoping to be able to plan ahead. Even that changes all the time. Its hard having to revolve your life schedule around a toddler, baby, AND an unpredictable medical field life.
Looks like you had fun at the patch. I can't wait to do that! You always look so good by the way. Hope I can get into some excercise routine when the baby's born...or just breast feed to death. I hear that works like a charm. The costume I was wearing was made out of cardboard and newspaper...not really heavy at all. Haley looked so cute in her costume. What a great moment to be able to spend happy time with Trevor. How fun.
Congrats on getting your garden planted! Ours is built . . . maybe we'll plant for spring! :)
Hey I totally feel your pain! The ob rotation was the worst! You really never know his schedule which can be frustrating at times. But it gets better, I promise! That was the hardest thing for me as well. Changing plans especially when you have kids can be hard. (Especially your running time...very important especially for Mom's!) I am so much more independent than I ever was because of Jeremy's crazy hours. If you ever need somewhere to go so Birch can sleep you are more than welcome to come over to our place!
CUTE, CUTE costumes!!! And you look great, Camille!!! :)
Hey! We are trying to get a Christmas card out this year. What is your address?
scottseaman80@gmail.com
Ours is:
PO Box 3932
Show Low, AZ 85902
Ahh the OB/GYN rotation...that really was the worst. Its good practice though for residency! Way to just take charge and go on with life - looks like you have been enjoying your time - what fun activities!
Post a Comment