Mommy went out to play...

I did it. I spent a night away from the baby. I was gone a whole 24 hours. And guess what? He was fine. So was I.

I honestly didn’t think I could do it. In fact, I was totally prepared to be driving back from Athens having a crying fit at 4 in the morning. It took me almost 45 minutes to leave the house. I had to kiss the baby about a thousand times and go over things with Chris at least a dozen times. This, of course, is totally absurd because both Chris and I know he is perfectly capable of taking care of the baby. It’s hard to explain, but it’s a very strange feeling to be away from your child. I know that Chris can take care of him, but I am totally convinced that Jackson needs ME. It’s kind of like the going back to work thing. I know he’s in good hands, but my hands are the best hands.

As I made my way to Athens for Anne Marie’s bachelorette party, I was 100% sure I was going to have fun and 25% sure I was going to leave before the sun was up on Sunday morning. I was preparing myself for feelings of guilt and sadness; however, once I got to the amazingly awesome Georgia Gameday Suites, the only feeling I had was happiness. I was happy to be there for Anne Marie. I was happy to be in Athens. I was happy to see my wonderful sorority sisters. I was happy to show off pictures of my baby. I was happy to know he was having a great time with his Daddy. I didn’t wake up Sunday morning until long after the sun was up (something that doesn’t happen too often any more) and you know what? It felt good.

I don’t want to be one of those moms that never leave her kids. I don’t think that’s healthy. Some separation is good, for both me and Jackson. Granted, being Jack’s mom is a huge part of my life now, but this weekend reminded me that I’m a lot of things – a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a friend – and being well-rounded in all aspects of my life will make me the best mom I can possibly be for my son.