I am taking the week off from all parental responsibilities. I was filled with both excitement and anxiety, as I prepared myself and family for a week without me. I knew my husband could handle it and would take care of the kids, but never actually been assigned the task before, I was nervous how things would go. But wanting the break so bad, I prepared them the best I could, stocking the fridge and freezer, planning playdates, contacting both the school and the kid’s teachers, and talking with the kids about how it would be. I felt I had set it up, so all he had to do was show up and follow the plan.
I left at midnight, Sunday night, planning to arrive to my sister’s house around nine in the morning. The drive was easy and without any hitches. Nervously, I called around the time the kid’s should be getting up and ready for school. They were surprisingly already up and dressed, with good attitudes. My husband reported a little crying from my youngest, as she is still mama’s girl and was sad to know she wouldn’t be able to cuddle with me for a whole week.
My sister and I have been making up for lost time, hanging out, talking, and visiting the desert sites. At moments, my concern for my family creeps in. I call to check in and things are running smoothly. The kids are arriving to school earlier than they had been when I was taking them, and being picked up on time. They have even made trips to the park before bedtime. The husband reports feeling more productive than he has in a long time. I like the change! Maybe I should go away more often!! It makes for a much more relaxed vacation.
I have a couple more days, before I have to head back. Trying to get in as much quality time as possible, we have been staying up late and doing things we couldn’t do with kids. I’m actually glad to have a few hours of down time when she heads to work every morning. I get to sleep in, spend some time writing, and explore the small desert town she lives in. I feel fortunate to have this time to spend with my sister, and to spend on my own. It’s a little pre-birthday treat to myself, funded in part by my family and sister. Happy Birthday to me. I couldn’t imagine a better birthday present! I live a pretty good life.
