Updated: July 17, 2016
Originally Published: July 17, 2016
Every time I start preparing for a getaway from my kids, the anxiety kicks in. It’s not about flight safety, lost bags, or the risk of catching a bug in an unfamiliar place. Instead, it’s the dread of what I’ll face upon my return. (Spoiler alert! It’s a messy home that smells like feet, greasy takeout, and who knows what else.)
I should be grateful for the chance to have a little mom getaway, right? I know, I know. And believe me, while I’m enjoying my time away from the chaos, I embrace every moment. I make a fantastic addition to any girls’ trip; each time I picture the mess waiting at home, I happily order another drink.
In the days leading up to my departure, I’m a whirlwind of activity—cleaning, organizing, and making lists: “Contact this person if there’s an issue!” “Here’s the pharmacy number!” “Don’t forget the cream for her elbow!” I stock the pantry with pre-packaged food that requires zero cooking and can be consumed without much thought, because let’s face it, whatever they eat while I’m gone will somehow revert back to being my problem.
I place healthy snacks within reach for tiny hands and label cups with names. I leave behind lists and buy apples—though I know they probably won’t touch them. So why do I exhaust myself preparing when I know chaos will reign the moment I step out? It’s just a facade, much like my futile attempts to get my family to appreciate kale.
I do all this to make my future self’s life easier because I can already envision my husband zoning out in front of an old action flick while the kids wreak havoc, using our fancy cushions as wrestling mats. I picture them having a blast, possibly involving a lot of chaos and flying objects that should never leave the ground.
As I enjoy a night out with friends, I try not to dwell on the fact that the carpet I just vacuumed will soon be littered with snack crumbs. While sipping sangria during lunch, I force myself to ignore thoughts about whether the kids will remember to brush their teeth or how high the laundry pile must have grown—because that’s a problem for later.
And the socks, oh gosh, the socks. My socks will mysteriously end up in my husband’s drawer, my daughter’s socks will be misplaced, and I’ll be missing pairs altogether because apparently, laundry is the most complicated task ever—so complicated that even adults can’t seem to manage it.
While I’m away, I relish sleeping in, getting ready in peace, and keeping my makeup untouched. It’s blissful. Yet as the trip goes on, I find myself missing my family. I’m not completely heartless.
Upon my return, my family greets me in pajamas—likely the same ones they wore days ago—and they look like they’ve been through a tornado. Everything is sticky. I’ll soon discover that strange things are lurking under the beds—like spatulas—and I’ll find Cheerios dust in unexpected places, butter stashed in cabinets, and even a random kid or two who have taken up residence.
Re-entry is a REAL struggle.
The trick, I’ve learned, is to enjoy every second while I’m away. That way, when I’m on my hands and knees searching for my daughter’s beloved toy upon returning, I can confidently tell my friend, “That was so worth it!” immediately followed by, “When’s our next adventure?”
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Summary:
Navigating the challenges of re-entering family life after a short escape can be overwhelming. Despite the mess and chaos that awaits, taking time for yourself is essential. Embrace the fun and adventure while away, so when you return to sticky floors and misplaced socks, you can remind yourself that it was all worth it.