Friday, November 25, 2011

FTWM with no helper

I am glad to say that i have survived the week as a full time working mother, with no helper and husband working overseas! OK, i cheated a little, I worked half day 3 times this week which made it a bit easier.... but the 2 full days of work was definitely challenging. More to come next week as I resume back to full day work.

What I've learnt this week

* If the toddler looks engrossed in something, grab the chance to finish up the chores. And so I catch all that short gaps of 5-10 mins where Isabelle looks fixated with playing with her toy, exploring her bedroom, watching the tv to quickly wash up the dishes, tidy up the mess, pack her school bag etc.

* Learn to relax even if things are not on schedule. This happens in the mornings usually as Isabelle is really slow in drinking her milk (not her favourite definitely). And as I watch the clock, my heart starts beating faster and faster cos we need to be out by 7.45am preferable in order for me to get to work by 8.30am. The first day I panicked and got impatient, and this resulted in the toddler getting more frustrated and almost throwing a tantrum. The next day I decided to stay cool, and wow...Isabelle responded by speeding up towards the end. What a pleasant surprise

* Plan, plan, plan. And multitask! Things that can be done concurrently, like cooking the porridge over the stove...while sweeping & mopping the house. At night, washing the school uniform while waitng for the hot water in the air pot to boil. SO many things to do, and too little time... I need to plan and strategise better to save time and be more efficient

* Observe and monitor the toddler for any minor symptoms which may point to a cold or flu bug seeping in, and nurse/medicate accordingly before it gets worse and the immune system weakens. Thankfully, I managed to notice the running nose & cough...and the teachers were diligent to update me as well, I medicated Isabelle with Kaloba & rhiniramine, and all is well. No fever, no major colds....we've survived 1 week of school! Hurray!

Throughout the week, I am thankful for my parents, for their constant encouragement (and worry). Mum called everyday to check if everything was fine, if Isabelle was adapting to school well (she did brilliantly by the way...no "post holiday" syndrome at all), if I was eating well, sleeping enough. Thank you mum & dad!

D and I also communicate on whatsapp/msn every night to update on Isabelle's health & behaviour, and brainstorm how to tackle her temperaments! It's like strategising on how to make each day better!

MOst of all, I know the Lord has been watching over us. Thank You Lord for answering our prayers and making each and every day smooth & possible!

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