A retrospective on the twilight of my maternity leave

On my last day of maternity leave, I would like to thank a few of the people who have helped make it a wondrous, joyful and highly educational 3 months:

First came Dee Dee, who turned on a dime to arrive 18 hours after Alex's birth and did yeoman's duty for the first two weeks of his life. Here he is showing this grandmother of two girls how little boys are different.

Then came Senior and GrandTerr, who welcomed their first grandbaby with great food and lots of cuddles.

Then Aunt Lauren provided excellent parenting tips (and even a playmate for Alex!)

And, of course, highest kudos to Bill. He has been an ideal spouse and dad -- sharing the entire journey with me...even taking over when I most needed help.

There have been many more: friends arriving with food, colleagues sending warm notes and relatives from across the country sending very generous gifts. Thanks to you all from the bottom of my heart.