Be Afraid. Be Very Afraid.

You know when you do something that you can't undo and then immediately regret it? Well, I've done one of those things. Sort of.

When the Captain returned from Afghanistan, I made the rather dramatic proclamation that I needed a break from my life, which, over the past seven months, had been worse than anything he could possibly begin to understand. Bear in mind that he was somewhere where things were exploding all the time, and where he had to take numerous medications to stave off exotic illnesses like malaria. So, as you can imagine, there was a lot of eye-rolling.

But I persevered, continued to be extra theatrical about needing a break, and then went and booked myself a non-refundable 4-day trip home to see my family. By myself!

So this week, for the first time ever, I am going to leave my children with their dad for more than one day. Okay, there was ONE time when I took a 48-hour "relaxation vacation". And by that, I mean that I left Firstborn at home with the Captain and my mother so that I could go push Rosemary's Baby out of my birth canal. But that doesn't count.

And now we come to the horrifying regret part. I mean, I'm still totally looking forward to getting on a plane and actually being able to read a magazine and drink my complimentary Diet Coke without anyone yelling, crying or throwing up on me. And I can't wait to see everyone and have a legitimate break. But the idea of leaving my kids in the care of anyone else, even their father (who, for the record, is very capable) has me absolutely terrified.

I've made a list for the Captain, which details things like what time Firstborn needs to be up in the morning, the homework routine, and numerous reminders that all doors need to be kept locked to stop Rosemary's Baby from heading down the highway on the lawnmower. And I picked up pill boxes for both boys so I can pre-administer their vitamins. I'm going to make all of Firstborn's school lunches in advance and lay out all his outfits too. Am I sounding like a control freak yet?! Because if the Captain rolls his eyes at me one more time, they're going to get stuck that way.

I guess the things in life that are really worth doing should always be met with with a pinch of trepidation. I'll be back with the play-by-play next Sunday!

Comments

He was their father 8 months ago right? Surely he can manage :O) If he can survive Afghanistan he can survive two little kids :O)
Kristie said…
I'm a new reader and I can already tell that I'm going to LOVE your blog! :)
You go girl!! Good for you. The Captain should be able to handle the 4 days without you. It will be good experience to be in control of the tots. So pack you bag, grab your book and maybe instead of the complimentary soda....have a glass of wine instead. Remember it is happy hour somewhere out there! Have fun...Jude

P.S. and only call home once to let the hubby know you arrived safely. He has your number in case he has questions.
Good for you - have loads of fun - and sleep! The kids will be fine, and it allows the Captain a new appreciation of your life (and as long as you don't do a four-day jaunt to Afghanistan in return, we're all good!).

Enjoy!
Deb Neerman said…
You go, girl! And I mean it ... just GO. Have fun, enjoy it, and stop worrying ... that's gonna take all the joy outta this experience. And who knows when you'll get a chance to do it again?!? So, no worries ... enjoy your brief respite into the land of no-kiddies for a few hours. And don't let anyone ... especially YOU ... spoil it fer ya!

Can't wait to hear about your adventure ... and the Captain's ... when you return to us!

PS: Where ya headed?

I'll miss ya ... sending hugs!!
Glenda said…
Relax....Breathe.....Enjoy. No worries...I'm sure a military man can handle this! And if he can't you will never know it! This little trip will do you so much good! Super Woman has to recharge too! Besides, this will be some much needed bonding time for the boys....All of them. I can't wait to hear about your adventures and The Captain's too!! Happy traveling!!!
laterg8r said…
so great you are taking a break - hope he and the boys have a great time :D
Linda said…
Enjoy your trip- the guys will survive it, just maybe not the way you would have done it.

Try not to worry, or feel guilty- just enjoy!
Unknown said…
That's wonderful news - I hope you have a fantastic trip and visit with your family! Everyone at home will be just fine, and when you return you'll be re-freshed and re-energized!
Angela said…
It's going to be hard for you to leave but it is good to take a break from being mommy.
Jenn said…
They'll survive:) I take off for a week in August each year and Crypt Keeper hasn't killed anyone yet.

You'd figure he might.....
Melanie said…
Relax, he can handle it -- and now Breath -- and love your vacation!
Stephanie Faris said…
I'm not a parent, so take this for what it's worth... I've found letting go of things and trusting someone else to take care of them in my absence is VERY tough for me. And we're talking about your children. I think I'd probably feel the same way in your shoes...but it will be liberating. Just take deep breaths and tell yourself it will all be okay. It will be good for them...and for you!
Janine said…
I can hardly wait for the update!! I need to know if the Captain was tied up in closet on your return!!

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