I need to log close to 1000 hours working in my school clinic in order to graduate. Because my current rate of 4 hours a week will take me into the next decade I've been trying to come up with ways to speed the process of up a bit. Fuser's sister had two weeks off and is babysitting for Max while I put in some time here at school. I truly enjoy being here at school, immersed in my education and learning so much more now that I can have the hands on approach. It has also been easy in the sense I know that there is an end to this routine--next week. What I cannot imagine and what I am grateful for 100fold is that this is not my life out of necessity. That is to say, I don't need to work full time or even part time in order for our family to survive. To that end I am so thankful for Fuser's job and income. We do make sacrifices to live on less but the benefits are innumerable. I get home these days around 6:30 only to put Max to bed around 7:30. One hour of parenting?! What kind of life is that for a little one who only wants to be in the presence of their parents?

This morning, Fuser and I were getting ready for the day. Usually in the morning, I'm laid back and have "all the time in the world." I'm not on a tight schedule. These days I am. Max was really fussy and clingy and started crying as I was just trying to get dressed and out the door. This isn't his personality. So I pick him and and nurse him in the rocker and spend a little more time before heading out for the day. His tia who is watching him right now isn't exactly a stranger, she lives with us and Max loves her. But when it comes down to it, no one is a replacement for mom and dad. Not the babysitter, the day care, or the nanny.

I know there are single parents out there with no choice but to work. I commend you.

But in this moment, on this day, I am glad I have the privilege of being home to raise my kids.