As I sit here on this airplane, gliding high above the shimmering turquoise waters of the Caribbean, I can’t help but glance at the chipped orange nail polish on my fingers. Just a week ago, it was a vibrant statement, but now it stands as a reminder that my tropical escape is officially over.
My week in Curacao was nothing short of spectacular. I snorkeled, sunbathed, and leaped off a 25-foot rock wall into the clearest water I’ve ever seen. I indulged in mouthwatering seafood and sampled local beverages, all while enjoying the bliss of being away from my 4- and 2.5-year-old daughters. My husband and I reveled in small victories: sleeping in, having uninterrupted conversations about politics and philosophy, and savoring the absence of cooking, cleaning, and laundry. It was pure joy.
But amidst the tranquility, I found myself missing my kids so much that it felt like a physical ache. As a stay-at-home mom, my days are filled with trips to the library, nature centers, and endless rounds of “who gets to play with which toy.” I craft peanut butter and jelly sandwiches like a pro and navigate the chaotic world of children’s tantrums over trivial matters like candy at breakfast or a dirty blanket that I dared to wash.
My life isn’t exactly glamorous, and let’s be real—parenting can be a real challenge. Just when I think I have everything under control, one of my little ones will throw an epic fit over something trivial, like being denied a sugary treat at 8:30 AM.
It had been three years since my husband and I had taken a vacation together without the kids, so the anticipation leading up to our trip was electric. I packed my suitcase with real clothes, not just yoga pants, and even treated myself to a new bathing suit. We checked into a gorgeous penthouse suite overlooking the Caribbean, where my days melted away in a haze of sunbathing, napping, and sipping guava daiquiris at 10 AM.
Yet, during this dream getaway, I noticed something peculiar. While the water was definitely bluer than Lake Erie, the truth is, the grass wasn’t necessarily greener. Why was I drawn to chat with strangers about their kids? Why did the sounds of children at play fill me with a sense of nostalgia instead of irritation?
I had been counting down the days for this escape from reality, so why was every moment of our trip tinged with a longing for my daughters to experience it too? Sometimes, as parents, especially during those demanding early years, we get so caught up in the daily grind that we forget the incredible privilege of raising little humans.
The most rewarding job I’ve ever had is being a stay-at-home mom. It may be unpaid and often thankless, but I cherish this time with my daughters, knowing that it won’t last forever. I realize that soon enough, they’ll prefer their friends over me, and that day will break my heart.
So, while you might dream of escaping to a tranquil beach on those chaotic parenting days, I can tell you that I was just there—and it was wonderful. But as my plane descends, all I want is to scoop my girls into my arms, breathe in their sweet scent, and shower them with kisses until they’re giggling and bright red.
I miss you, paradise, but I miss my babies even more.
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Summary
A vacation in Curacao made me realize just how much I value my role as a mother. While the getaway offered relaxation and adventure, it also highlighted the deep love and connection I have with my children. The experience reminded me that parenting, despite its challenges, is truly rewarding.