This image may not convey the pomp and circumstance of a military changing-of-the-guard ceremony, but the transitions depicted are quite meaningful.

This is Whitney’s first day back in the office following three months of parental leave. The warm greetings conveyed on a handmade cardboard banner provide some comfort for the sleep-deprived mom who left her infant daughter, Mavis, at daycare for the first time only hours ago.

In Whitney’s absence, Melanie stepped in as temporary account manager and relief pitcher. As Whitney eases back into the office routine, it is apparent that a host of marketing plans and projects are on time and on target, thanks to Melanie’s expertise and attention to detail.

If this were a formal ceremony, both squared-away troops would pass the white-glove inspection. The only difference is that one soldier desperately needs a good nap.