I’m getting ready to take my first solo trip since I became a parent. Yes. It’s taken twelve years. Not because I haven’t wanted to, because I definitely have. But circumstances (distance, expense, lack of child care) previously made it impossible. I thought I’d be writing about how I wouldn’t miss the kids at all. I don’t consider myself a very sentimental person, nor am I so attached to my children that I can’t leave them ever. I think it’s healthy and normal to have time alone. In fact, I’ve always favored solitude (yet somehow live with 5 other people and a dog now…). But when I told my smallest about my travel plans and she pressed her warm body against mine and asked if she could go, I melted a little. Then I heard my eldest in the next room, cackling about something on tv. I remembered his laugh is my favorite. These are the small things that I will carry, they won’t take up any space in my bags, but in those quiet moments, I am sure they will occupy much in my heart.
trees all dance 
It sounds horrible, but I’m always surprised by how much I miss Chris & Klaw when I travel alone. Good luck.
Oh have a wonderful trip-lucky you! It can be a complicated thing-this leaving. As much as I go bonkers with my kiddos, I often feel like I am missing an appendage when they aren’t with me.
Of course you’ll miss them but oh man will it feel so good to be on your own for a bit. It’s pretty exhilarating. I hope it’s a fun trip you have planned.
I had my first night alone since we brought A. home from the NICU last week and it was hard by spells. I spent a lot of time feeling lonely for her. But I won’t lie, laying on the couch the next day and reading with my feet up? Was amazing.
Bon voyage! Enjoy your trip.
Enjoy your trip! I’m slightly jealous. You should take me with you next time.
Just recently I’ve gotten these anxious feeling when it comes time to leave my babies overnight. Not sure why because I normally relish in moments to myself. I think its because this may be my last baby and I just want to suck up every minute of her being small.
I am normally easy going about leaving my babies but lately I’ve been apprehensive and I’m not sure why. I think because the baby is growing so fast and is likely to be my last one I don’t want to miss any part of her growing. Crazy I know!!