This past week was one of those that felt like I was living two different lives. By day, I was in the Cath lab at the local hospital, deeply immersed in clinical observations that expanded my understanding of the work. By night, I was juggling family, squeezing in runs, and managing all the little things in between. Exhausting? Absolutely. Fulfilling? More than I expected.
Monday: The week kicked off smoothly with Joel’s parents stepping in to pick up the kids from daycare while Joel played pickleball. After my day in the Cath lab, I met them all there. Watching the kids play and catching up with everyone was a much-needed way to unwind after a long day on my feet.
Tuesday: Picture day at daycare! You know how those can go—sometimes you get the perfect shot, other times it’s more “interesting” than frame-worthy. But this time, the pictures turned out fantastic, and even though they were on the pricier side, I ordered the packages because, honestly, how could I not? Check them out!
After my cases at the hospital, I headed to the office to wrap up a few things and stayed later than planned. With Joel’s work call at 8 PM, I took the opportunity to lace up my running shoes and go for a 4-mile run.
And oh, that run. The dark and cool evening air was exactly what I needed, and there’s something almost magical about running when the world has quieted down… although next time I will definitely be using my headlamp instead of trying to rely on the street lamps. You would think after a decade of running, I would know better. I came home feeling so energized that I couldn’t fall asleep right away. I stayed up a little later than I should have, but it was worth it.
Wednesday: After another day in the lab, I was starving. The lunch sandwich I had ordered in had mushrooms—something I’m allergic to—so I had to skip it. Naturally, I picked up Chipotle on the way to meet Joel and the kids at swimming lessons. Miles was swimming like a little fish—practically on his own! He might even move up to the next class soon, and I couldn’t be prouder. After lessons, Joel headed to pickleball while the kids and I had an impromptu driveway picnic with Happy Meals. Sometimes, it’s those simple moments that bring the most joy… and extra work to bring ALL THE TOYS back inside after the kiddos bring them out to play with.
Thursday: It was another early start for the immersion, but I wrapped up at a reasonable time. Later in the evening, I met up with a couple of friends for a run, which felt like a breath of fresh air—both literally and figuratively. Running with friends is always a treat, and it was so nice to have company for a change. Afterward, it was back home to help get the kids settled into bed.
Friday: Joel left for Austin, TX, for a pickleball tournament, and his sister was a lifesaver, taking him to the airport early in the morning. That gave me just enough time to drop the kids off before heading to the hospital for immersion. After finishing around lunch, I went into the office for a bit before picking up Hailey from daycare. The grandparents picked up Miles for the evening, so Hailey and I made a fun little trip to Target with her best friend. We had to pick out a birthday present for the party we were going to and, of course, grab a cake pop! We spent the evening at the birthday party, complete with pizza, cake, and a visit to the playground. The kids had a blast with crafts and games in the basement. When we got home, Joel’s parents had already brought Miles back, and I got the kids ready for bed.
Then, I tackled a new challenge: washing my hair for the first time since getting extensions. It was a process. I did it in the bath to make sure everything was washed properly, then blow-dried it before heading to bed. By the time I finished, I was more than ready to curl up with my book, and I fell asleep almost instantly.
The kids slept until almost 6:30 AM this morning, which felt like a small miracle. It’s amazing how much joy a little extra sleep can bring!
Key Takeaways from the Week:
- Don’t underestimate the power of a good run: Seriously, it’s the best stress reliever.
- Work-life balance is tough: It’s a constant struggle with both of us working and wanting to do activities, but I’m realizing how important it is to make time for both my career, my activities and my family.
- Memories are worth it: Sure, those daycare photos were expensive, but they’ll be cherished forever.
- Appreciate the little moments: Amid the chaos, take time to enjoy the small moments, like a beautiful run or a driveway picnic.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help: We all need support sometimes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to family and friends when you need it. (Easier said than done)
This week stretched me in all directions, but there’s something special about finding joy in the chaos. Whether it’s observing intricate procedures in the Cath lab or enjoying a late-night run that leaves me feeling more alive than ever. The clinical immersion made me want to bo back to med school, like every time I go see a case. I’m so grateful for the support of my family and friends to help get me through weeks like this (which seems to be happening more often lately). Here’s to finding balance, making memories, and squeezing in those peaceful nighttime runs – especially as fall is making it’s appearance, can’t miss the perfect running weather!