Changes

A few things have changed around for us. The biggest change is that Tom's now going back to work on Monday, rather than in April. Part of this was expected - since he started leave two weeks early, we figured he'd have to go back early. However, it seems as though they're cutting another 10 days off. But with the economy as it is and threats of layoffs at the hospital, we decided it's safer not to complain. The only bright side is that as Tom is staying up again at night, he's been doing all the night diaper changes, which gives me at least a few minutes extra sleep.

I'm really bummed though that he has to go back. It'd be easier if he worked the day shift. We've just gotten so used to being on the same schedule again (first time in almost 4 years) and of course, it's really hard for him to not be spending as much time with Ronan. But I know we'll manage. He's also going to start trying to get a day-shift position as soon as he can.

The other big change is on my school/career end. After being rejected to the three programs I applied to, I wrote to my recommenders at Kent to let them know. One of my professors immediately wrote back to say that I should apply at Kent, since they had gotten funding again for PhD students. So now I'm waiting to hear from that, but if I get accepted, we'll be staying here for at least 5 more years. On the plus side, it'd be great to go back to Kent, where I know and like my professors and some of my friends are still there. It'll also be nice to not have to try to sell this house in such a bad economy. But we've both been looking forward to moving back to Minnesota at some point soon. I feel bad that my parents aren't able to spend more time with their grandson. It'll be good though to get my PhD done and then move from there.

In baby news, Ronan is doing really well. He's starting to make more cooing noises and "talking" to himself. He's still growing like a weed. I weighed myself with him and it looks like he's about 12-13lbs. We'll find out for sure though at his next appointment, which is in a week or so. We've also decided to have him baptized at my church here in Kent in April. We're waiting to get Tom's schedule before we make the final date decision, but I'm looking forward to that.