Returning to work after 40: Easter eggs, coffee, and the first unofficial day back

Today marks my first unofficial return to work as a new mum over 40. And no, it’s not because the office closes at 2pm and everyone flocks to the pub. I’ve been lured back by something far more persuasive: chocolate. Specifically, the Newcastle Quayside Easter Egg Hunt.

If you’ve read my recent posts, you’ll know I live for two things at the moment: chocolate and coffee. So skipping this event was never an option. It also felt oddly fitting to return now, because exactly a year ago I was six months’ pregnant, racing around the city with #teamrabbit hunting for clues in the first Gardiner Richardson Easter Egg Hunt.

Despite being labelled an “obese, older mum-to-be” by doctors, I clung to my company’s motto and reminded myself I could do it. That day, we covered six miles around the city and #teamrabbit emerged victorious. This year, #teamlamb hasn’t had to walk nearly as far, though I carried a rather heavier load… so logically, we should have had a head start.

Easing back into work after maternity leave

The event got me thinking about my actual return to work in less than a month. Coming back after almost a year away can be daunting for any new mum, especially over 40. There’s little time to share your story with colleagues who’ve been juggling your workload in your absence. That’s why I’ve stayed in touch with friends and colleagues at GR, keeping myself in the loop.

And judging by my welcome, they’re thrilled to have me back, my new desk was ready before I’d even hung up my coat. There have been awards, client wins, new starters and leavers, but I already feel connected. I may not yet know how I’ll manage morning traffic, Cyrus’s drop-offs and pick-ups, H’s dinner, lack of sleep, or the actual job, but I know I’ll be eased back in gently.

Team-building with chocolate and a side of baby drool

Returning to work is all about planning, which is why I orchestrated this unofficial “Return To Work” day. Many women find their confidence dips on returning, but this Easter Egg Hunt gave me a chance to reacquaint myself with work life, meet new faces, and reconnect with old friends. In short: team-building at its best.

It also gave my colleagues a chance to meet the new me, the one-woman band juggling a bottle of Aptamil, a furry bunny, and a mobile phone. Who needs cymbals and drums when you’ve got a rucksack on your back and a trail of baby drool down the front?

Today wasn’t just about chocolate or clues. It was therapeutic, and confidence-boosting. I’ve connected with people I didn’t know and strengthened bonds with those I did, leaving me reassured that my first day back won’t be a scramble but a gentle, supported return.

Chocolate: the ultimate motivator

While #teamlamb didn’t win the Easter Egg Hunt this year, it was a win-win for me. The boss handed out chocolate eggs to everyone anyway, leaving one happy baby and an even happier mum. I’m not suggesting every workplace organise an Easter Egg Hunt for returning mums, but even a small team-building exercise helps ease the transition back into work.

For those curious about our antics, check out @inspirebelief_. And if you fancy an Easter Egg Hunt of your own, click here for clues and instructions. You can even share your answers on Twitter using #QuaysideEasterEgg.

We ended the day at Persian Delight in Stanhope Street, Newcastle, indulging in koobideh and tea, Cyrus got a taste too. All in all, chocolate, coffee, team spirit, and a side of Persian cuisine. A perfect unofficial return to work.