The birth of my daughter in July, 2005 changed my life in many ways.  I planned and took a three-month leave of absence beginning in April, 2006 to coincide with the time my wife returned to work after her maternity leave.

At the beginning of my time away from work, the challenges in my life and the daily schedule suddenly changed significantly—from client meetings, workshops, and phone calls to playgroups, preparation of meals, and “scream-driven night-missions.” With my wife’s flexible working hours and my leave of absence, we were able to go on holidays as a threesome for the first time.

Most of my friends really envied me for being able to take a leave for three months. From my point of view, the intensive time with my daughter is the basis for my strong relationship with her—today she can definitely be characterized as a “Daddy’s girl.”

In December 2007, my son was born, and I am really looking forward to spending some months with him as well, beginning in December 2008, when my wife returns to work.