Recently, I embarked on an airplane journey all by myself. If you’re a parent who doesn’t frequently travel for work, you might grasp just how liberating this was. While standing in line to check in, I didn’t have to manage a squirming little body pulling at my arm. When it came time for a bathroom break, I was free from the worry of a wailing child clinging to me like a crab. Even riding the train to my terminal was a serene experience—I didn’t have to debate with anyone over their fascination with handrails. I simply walked onto the plane, and it felt like magic.
This little adventure occurred because my partner had a conference, and I decided to tag along. After much negotiation, I convinced my parents to look after our kids. I snagged a budget-friendly flight and embarked on a trip dedicated to writing and catching up on work without interruptions.
I realized throughout this week away just how many aspects of myself I had forgotten. Here are some key reflections:
- I’m Actually Fun: Without kids around, I don’t find myself arguing over sugary snacks or reminding anyone to cover their mouths when they cough.
- My Vocabulary Changes: Words like “potty” and “dilly-dally” rarely make it into my everyday language outside of parenting.
- I Have My Own Thoughts: I can think about topics unrelated to fictional wizards or the potential for imaginary dragons lurking about.
- Freedom from Worry: I didn’t have to constantly fret about whether I was doing a good job parenting.
- I Like My Partner: It was refreshing to have uninterrupted conversations without waiting for a child to finish their latest tale.
- Enjoyable Meals: Dinner was delightful when everyone at the table genuinely wanted to eat what was served. No bribery necessary!
- Less Drama: My week alone was far less dramatic than the emotional roller coasters of daily parenting.
- Quick Departures: I could leave the house in a flash, knowing exactly where my belongings were, without sudden potty emergencies.
- Alone Time in the Bathroom: I appreciated the peaceful solitude without the familiar sounds of tiny feet scrambling to find me.
- Adult Movies Are Great: I could actually enjoy a film without succumbing to fatigue after the kids went to bed.
- Silence is Strangely Loud: The absence of chatter made me acutely aware of how much noise kids create throughout the day.
- Late Nights are Ideal: I remembered that my true nature leans towards being a night owl, even if I’ve been forced into early mornings.
- Self-Monitoring is Simple: I was proud to manage my own manners, clothing choices, and hygiene without supervising anyone else.
- I Like Myself More: I found that I was more pleasant to be around when I wasn’t in constant parent mode.
- Missing My Kids: Above all else, I realized how much I missed my children. Their sweet yet annoying voices, sticky fingers, and silly quirks filled my heart with warmth. They are my greatest joy and the best decision I ever made, and I found the silence to be a bit too much after a while.
This week served as a valuable reminder of who I am beyond motherhood. If you’re looking for more insights and guidance on home insemination, check out this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, taking a break from parenting can lead to important self-discoveries while also highlighting how much we cherish our little ones.