Minus 2

What would you do if you got to spend a few days without your kids? Well, my mom took Racer and Ariel on Wednesday and will have them until Saturday so I've been figuring this out. Well, kind of figuring it out because I still have Rue. Honestly I haven't done much but it sure has been nice. Here is what I've decided from the experience thus far:

First, having one kid is much less stressful. My greatest pleasures have come from: (in no particular order) having to only strap one child into a carseat, only doing one bedtime routine, being able to maintain a clean house with little effort, and having two two hour breaks every day while Rue takes a nap. This is great for my sanity. Oh, and grocery shopping! I was nearly giddy at Wal Mart yesterday because of how easy it was.

Second, no talking kids makes for a very quiet house. Things have been so calm and relaxing around here.

Third, this has been good for my marriage. Don't misunderstand, my marriage is great to begin with, but it has sure been easier for my husband and I to enjoy each other without our usual little distractions. We've actually been able to have several conversations completely uninterrupted. Amazing.

Fourth, my baby is the sweetest baby on the earth. This has been a super sweet time for Rue and I. We've read books, played with toys, practiced walking, snuggled, hugged, laughed. . .it's been great. Every child should get to experience being the only child for a little while.

Please don't think I'm ready to pass off my children for good. I miss them. Yesterday I talked to Ariel on the phone and listening to her tell all about her day was the highlight of mine. The only thing that makes this experience so sweet is knowing that I'll get to have them back in a couple days. For now, however, I'm really enjoying this vacation. Thanks mom!