By: Jamie Carter
Recently, I boarded a plane solo for the first time in ages. If you’re a parent who doesn’t frequently travel for work, you’ll understand how surreal this experience can be. Standing in line for check-in, I didn’t have to struggle with a small, squirming child at my side. When I needed to use the restroom, there was no frantic baby attached to me like a disgruntled barnacle. Riding the train to my terminal, I didn’t have to negotiate with anyone about their aversion to not licking the handrails. I simply strolled onto the airplane, and it was nothing short of magical.
The whole adventure came about because my partner had a conference, and I decided to tag along. After some creative maneuvering, I convinced my parents to watch the kids, booked a budget flight, and off I went—hoping to write and catch up on work without interruptions.
I hadn’t spent time away from my kids in a non-vacation setting since they were born, and I was surprised to rediscover so many things about myself over the week. Here are some of my realizations:
- I’m Quite Fun: Without kids, I don’t find myself arguing over sugary treats or demanding that people cover their mouths when they cough.
- My Vocabulary Has Changed: Words like “hiney,” “potty,” and “dilly-dally” have invaded my speech since becoming a parent.
- I Have Thoughts: Genuine thoughts that aren’t solely centered around what Harry Potter might do next or the possibility of dragons lurking in dark corners.
- I’m Not Constantly Worrying: It was liberating to realize that I wasn’t fretting over whether I was ruining someone’s life.
- My Partner and I Like Each Other: It was refreshing to hold a full conversation without interruptions from kids eager to share their latest “important” news.
- Dinner Is Enjoyable: When I’m not bribing myself with dessert to get through dinner, I can just relish the food.
- Life’s Drama Is Minimized: I found my time alone to be refreshingly drama-free compared to the chaos of daily parenting.
- I Can Leave the House Quickly: I know right where my shoes are, and there’s no last-minute bathroom emergency to contend with.
- Bathroom Privacy Is Bliss: No one is shouting for me or slipping notes under the door while I’m trying to enjoy a moment of solitude.
- Adult Movies Are a Treat: I usually miss out on grown-up films because I’m too exhausted after the kids go to sleep. It was nice to enjoy one without any interruptions.
- Silence Is Odd: My ears rang for the first day; you don’t realize how much kids talk until they’re not around.
- Late Nights Are the Way to Go: I remembered that I’m a night owl at heart, waiting for the day I can embrace that again.
- I Monitor Just Myself: I consistently succeed at managing my own manners and hygiene, which felt like a huge win.
- I Like Myself More Without Parenting: I found I’m a bit more enjoyable company when I’m not constantly reminding someone to keep their hands to themselves.
- I Miss My Kids Like Crazy: Eventually, I found myself longing for their sweet, annoying voices and those sticky little hands. They are truly the best decision I’ve ever made, and the quietness became a bit dull after a while.
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Summary
Taking a week away from my kids allowed me to rediscover parts of myself that had been overshadowed by parenting responsibilities. I enjoyed the freedom of being myself, but ultimately, I realized just how much I value my children’s presence in my life.