Going back to work has been both a liberating yet petrifying experience in both a professional and personal sense. Leaving J was difficult although I was surprised not to have the guilt ridden angst so often talked about by many working mothers. (Does that make me a bad mother??) I am lucky to have amazing family support and a hubby that have facilitated this almost seamless transition back to work.
Trying to coordinate everything has been much harder than I ever expected and sometimes the struggle to achieve this concept of balance seems like a battle that cannot be won. I have come to the conclusion that perhaps there really is no such thing as balance and at any one time we are like tight rope walkers just trying not to tip over and in the process often overcompensate by leaning in the opposite direction.
It has been encouraging to read and talk to other friends' about their journeys in trying to achieve this elusive balance between family life, careers and personal endeavours. One of my favourite blogs comes from my friend Lisa - http://lisamckaywriting.wordpress.com , it is not only a very honest and open account of Lisa's life and thoughts but is very funny and extremely thought provoking.
It has also been wonderful to have the time to do a few other non baby related things. Recently I was lucky enough to go to a masterclass as part of the Melbourne food and wine festival and went to see Stevie Parle, UK 2010 young chef of the year speak and cook. He is a very down to earth cook who believes in simple, whole food cooking. His recipes are simple and really lovely. His pea pilaf and chicken liver with 7 spices was delicious and easy to make (pictured above). I am enjoying reading his new book 'Real Home Cooking From Around The World', and looking forward to trying a number of the recipes!
