Natalie Morales: It's good to be back!
Posted: Tuesday, December 09, 2008 4:39 PM by Jen Brown
From Natalie Morales, national correspondent
We often say we are like family on the Today Show, but I never felt it more than today, my semi-first day back from maternity leave. (I’m officially back on the 26th.) I was warmly welcomed "home" repeatedly by the gang, the crew, the folks out on the plaza, and viewers. It's nice to feel missed, so thank you to those who have thought of me, e-mailed or even wrote.
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| Spending some quality time with baby Luke and Joe. |
Truth is, I feel I was here all along because I watched the show as you all do, as viewers -- ok with a little more insight to the inner workings of the show. Most recently, I celebrated in our team's accomplishments, as you all did, when they traveled to the Ends of the Earth to highlight the issues confronting our planet with global warming. I also was able to actually "watch" my first election not working -- so I got to stay up really, really late. (OK, truth is I never really got to sleep much because of constant feedings, burpings, changings). I missed being here especially during such an historic election, but it was fascinating getting to see how all the networks were covering such an incredible time. I've also watched and learned so much along with you, as we've seen our economy crumble and are living in very uncertain times.
One thing about the Today Show, and I hope you will agree, is no matter what the day brings, there is a real sense of connection... of belonging... of family. I mean this not just as a member of the team, but I felt it just watching from home. I remember long before my days on the show especially feeling that sense of belonging while watching the TODAY show on the morning after 9-11. As long as the team could find the bright spot, make you smile or laugh out loud, all seemed as it should be. Clearly, I've missed being here….
So what have I been up to? Well, mothering is a full-time job as you don't need me to tell you... but especially with a newborn and a now very grown up 5 year old, I have been keeping busy -- to say the least. I've joked throughout my maternity leave that I would only really get a good night's sleep when I came back to work. Somehow, 4 am wakeup calls seem like child’s play now when you're getting up every two hours for feedings. Thank goodness, Luke is a better sleeper these days, as I start to come back to work. He is growing up so fast. He laughed out loud for the first time the other day, and because it was a new sound to him and coming from him, he seemed so surprised. What an incredible thing to be able to enjoy these first of many milestones.
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| My boys! Big brother Josh and Luke with their dad. |
I’ve also been loving having breakfast with Josh (who is an amazing big brother, by the way), and taking him to and from school when I can. These are the moments I will really miss since I'm not around most weekday mornings. I've been a helping parent several times at my son's school, and have enjoyed getting to know his classmates and teachers.
I have also made more new great friends, who have helped me in so many ways, whether picking up Josh on days I couldn't make it or even making us a great meal those first few days when cooking is hardly a priority.
My friends have also helped me get back into shape, motivating me and keeping me committed...because it is harder getting back in shape the second time around. Without them, and especially without my great support team at home, I wouldn't be able to do what I do. It does "take a village," as the saying goes.
I know I'm so blessed in so many ways -- two healthy, sweet boys, a supportive family, and the job I have, especially in these critical and historic times. Thanks for welcoming me back with open arms and open hearts.
Happy Holidays!
Natalie
