Tuck: "So, Mama, when are you guys leaving?"
My parents weren't far behind him asking exactly when we were going to skedaddle for our "big kid" trip. Chris and I planned a getaway during the time we were visting in Massachusetts. The kids and the grandparents could take care of each other...Mags being in charge, of course. Chris and I were going to run away for the first time in a LONG TIME. Alone. Chris' aunt kindly offered up her beautiful beach condo in Florida (THANKS, AUNT SUE!) and we were sold. With the surgery only two weeks ago, laying around at the beach in the warmth sounded heavenly.
Just one thing....I had to get past myself and the list of silly questions racing through my post-surgical brain. What if the kids missed me? We've never been away from them this long. What if they misbehave for my parents? What if Mags has a nightmare? What if Mags gets into my mom's good make-up? What if my Dad cuts his leg open running up a slide? (Wait, that one has already been covered) What if...what if...what if....
And then I snapped myself out of it. My parents and our kids are peas in a pod. They had big plans...and they all were looking forward to THEIR TIME together! Time away is good for all of us. It will replenish my supply of patience and I will have time to finish up my recovery. My husband and I are looking forward to eating hot food and talking about something....anything really....besides what needs to go on the grocery list or where exactly that urine smell is coming from in the bathroom. The romance is HOT in our house.
We arrived in Florida yesterday after a long day of travel, settled in the condo and got some food. After dinner we called the kids on Face Time to say good night. All my worries melted away as soon as I saw their faces. It was obvious they were all going to be just fine.
Especially with Mags at the helm.
Don't you love technology? One thing I always think of when we slip away for "adult" time is that I made it through childhood with my parents at the wheel. Still feels a little weird though. You guys enjoy your hoteals, sleep, and total relaxation. I hope you're greeted the way I am when we return home from a trip....Ry yells NOOOOO! Then I know she had a great time, and I was more worried than she was. :)
ReplyDeleteHAHA! I have a feeling that is going to be what will be happening. The kids and grandparents are having a BLAST! :)
DeleteThat is good stuff! Time alone with grandparents is magical. I spent every weekend with my grandparents when I was a kid. It was amazing, for me and for my parents. I got to know my grandparents, and to play with them in so many imaginative, creative ways. They got to rest and have fun together.
ReplyDeleteHope you and Chris enjoy it here. The regularly scheduled afternoon showers usually pass quickly, but they give you time to rest, too.
Have a great vacation! Wear your sunscreen - I burned yesterday in the spots I missed just driving to the beach, and I live here!
Peace, love, and sunshine,
Amy
Thanks, Amy.
DeleteI spent a ton of time with my grandparents as a child, too, and those are some of my most treasured memories.
Thanks. I forgot to get my stomach on the third application and it burned a little, but I'll be more aware today. We are excited to be here. :P
I am so happy for you. I know for a fact that I can not leave Sofia alone for any extended period of time. I am kinda jealous of you, but at the same time, I am gonna soak up all the attention that I get from her, because I know it's fleeting. Have fun!!
ReplyDeleteYou're right. A day will come when our kids can't be bothered with us anymore...then D, RUN LIKE HECK TO THE NEAREST VACATION SPOT! :)
DeleteTime alone with your husband is great for your marriage! Anything good for your marriage is GREAT for your kids. Have fun!
ReplyDeleteThose are very true words. Thanks!!
DeleteI think it's really important to get away without the kids. It's always hard for me, too. I have been known to cry on the way to the airport. BUT, it's good for them and it's good for you. For starters, the better your marriage, the better your kids will be. Second, it's good for your kids to spend time with their grandparents.
ReplyDeleteThat said, you are I are obviously lucky that we have grandparents to watch our kids so we can sneak away. Not everybody has that luxury!
I agree! It is important and we haven't taken time out enough. We really need to start being better about it.
DeleteAnd, you are so right, Steph. We truly are VERY lucky gals!
Sounds like everyone in the According To household is having a great stretch.
ReplyDeleteENJOY!
We are, thanks, Guap!
Delete"The According To" household. I like that!!