First time alone!

Nola is now 3 months, 1 week and 3 days old, and tonight is my first time alone. I truly is amazing how much being a mother changes your life. Doug and I have been so fortunate to have family close by who are willing to take Nola for an hour or two, here and there, so we can have a date night, but tonight is the first time without Doug or Nola...and to be completely honest, it has been wonderful! I had a long, luxurious bubble bath, played my guitar and vegged on the couch - things that I defiantly took for granted before having a baby.
I was actually talking to a friend of mine who is expecting, and she asked if having a baby really is such a drastic and life changing experience. As I sat and pondered this question, I think the answer is both yes and no. I know for myself, my life didn't drastically change once Nola came into the world. Doug, Nola and I slowly learned the swing of things and transitioned quite beautifully into our now day-to-day routine, but it is in the day-to-day that you realize the changes. The dishes that don't get done, the calls that don't get made, the meager meals you eat straight from the fridge with a baby on your hip. The lack of 'you' time, to work on your talents, to enjoy a movie without interruption, to have a good nights sleep.
I have heard over and over again the 'sacrifices' of being a mother, and I truly believe it is in the small and simple things. I am sure it is quite easy for women to 'lose' themselves in the day-to-day of being a mom.
I am so very grateful for a loving family and a wonderful husband who grants me the time I need for me. We are a team.
Well, that's how I'm feeling right now. Thanks for listening.
Jess :)