A Beginning of a New Era

The days are numbered.  You wake up with your lovely son, grab some breakfast, cuddle for a little bit, read a few books and eventually your son goes down for his first nap.  It could last anywhere from 1-2 hours, but you knew it was coming.  It would give you just enough time to have that coffee, read up on some blogs, the news, maybe even catch a dvr'd show.  Then, he wakes up and you get out and start your day, no earlier than 11 am.  You can meet up with some friends, go to a class.  But you inevitably will have to run home to get him his much needed second nap.  Another 1-2 hours where you will be sure and try your hardest to clean up around the house, get some chores and work done, but really, who am I kidding...I basically took this time for myself.

That was then.  Now, the days are numbered, we go from 2 naps to a few days here and there when my son wants no nap after the hour of 11 am.  that leaves me at least 7 HOURS!  I would love some insight from those of you who can keep your toddler engaged for 7 hours without going crazy.  Sure, we try to get out at least once a day...but the longer periods of activity are leaving me exhausted and at a lack for things to do.  It is really like running a marathon.  I am wondering if it just takes some time to adjust, or if I will always feel like this.  I need to read up on some books, because I know for sure putting little man down for one nap at 10 and having him wake that early for the rest of the day doesn't seem to be helping with hs tantrums.  ahh, the joys of parenting.