I don't travel often. It didn't really happen before I had a family, or now that I have one. Before, for lack of budget; now, for lack of time.
Except… last week. I had accumulated an impressive number of points on my “plane” loy alty card allowing me to get a flight for me and my wife, without having to pay, in Paris… or in the South, with the children.
Several factors led me to choose the trip to Europe. I know some parents will judge me by saying that I should have enjoyed free time with my children, but let me tell you about my reasoning.
1- The plane
Flying with a 2-year-old who likes to move a lot is not ideal. It is stressful for the passengers, the staff on the plane but also for the parents. We don't want our children to be "tiring" for others. These are flights of several hours. I flew when I was 8 with my grandmother. In the end, she wanted to kill me, the staff and the other passengers too. I had an earache and cried the whole time. I'm going on vacation. I don't want this stress.
2- Routine
On vacation, with the crazy year I had,I wanted to pick up. I didn't bring my phone, I was disconnected from reality for a week. The routine with the children is still a stress… We do not really escape family life with the routine!. In addition, there is the question of sleep… The sleep routine. I didn't want it! I wanted to be able to go to bed and get up whenever I wanted.
3- Love
With our respective activities, children's activities, homework, work and all the rest, my wife and I do not have all the time we want together. We have some, but it is rarely to be enjoyed over a long period of time. Rediscover our connection, our feeling when we are just the two of us. To have fun. To simply love each other.
4- Security
My children were going to stay with their grandmother and their routine will not be upset. They would continue to go to daycare or school. It allowed me to come home without having to put the routine back in place. Plus, I knew my kids were in good hands.
5- Me
You must have noticed: this article is written in the first person singular. I take responsibility for myself. Maybe I was a little selfish. Leave without the children. I say it, and I have a little guilt. However, here is the reality: it was my best trip! I needed time for myself. For me and my wife too. Time to recharge my batteries, regain energy and come back positive, positive for my children too. Tell them aboutwhat I experienced with a little light in my eyes.
I missed them. It was difficult. But I would do it again anytime! It is a luxury to have been able to do this, and I appreciate it very much.
Would you go on holiday without your children?
