I had the whole thing figured out…I’d have her, come back in a couple months, and jump into the swing of things in no time. But, it seems babies have a way of changing things.

So called “natural producers” are experts in backtiming. Our main job once the newscast is on the air is to manage the clock. We can tell you instantly how we can fit an extra three minutes of breaking news into the show…no problem. Producers walk that tightrope of knowing exactly what needs to be added, deleted, or edited in order to end the show on time. There are no exceptions. Ever.

Now, this skill set of mine is getting used in a whole new way. I can tell you that if I need to be at work at 9:00, the baby needs to be up at 7:30. I need her fed by 7:55 and dressed by 8:00. My husband has to wake up by 8:05. I need to have packed her little backpack by 8:15 and I need to be out the door by 8:25. I have “pad time” built in…in case of spit-ups, diaper changes, or a lost pacifier.

My entire morning is spent making mental notes of the clock and keeping my timing exact. I think it’s a skill most moms – or just women for that matter – have. It’s no wonder there are more female producers in the news business than men. But here’s the deal. Babies aren’t on time. They tell you when they want to be fed, when they want to sleep, and when they are just going to break your heart when they flash that gummy, sweet smile at you.

This past three months was the longest time I’ve had away from this crazy news business in the past 11 years. Watching the news from home was eye-opening. The “bad news” bothered me more…the “good news” seems so much more interesting. Stories of child abuse got my attention…and the Britney Spears coverage seemed like overkill.

Apparently, you need balance in this life – and on television. Just when I thought I knew everything about making a good newscast, my entire perspective changed. I think becoming a mother will actually help me become a better producer.

Now back at work – I am once again, backtiming my day. Knowing I need to finish my work by a certain time in order to get out of the newsroom, into my car, and back to my daughter in time for her 6:30 feeding.