As I prepare to leave for a weekend celebration with friends, I can’t help but feel a mix of excitement and anxiety. Thankfully, I have a supportive partner who enjoys spending time with our kids, but I am undeniably the primary organizer of our chaotic household. Admittedly, this circus can be messy, and even though we have our routine somewhat under control, I can’t help but worry that everything may fall apart while I’m gone. While these worries usually fade away with a glass of wine shortly after I arrive at my destination, here are some lingering thoughts I have before I depart:
1. Will my partner remember to feed the kids?
In the past, I would fret about the nutritional balance of their meals. Now, my main concern is simply that they get enough to eat and don’t end up with rickets or scurvy before I return. I often wonder if I’ll come home to find them munching on nothing but snacks, or worse, the dreaded “ummm… lunch?” look.
2. If he does feed them, what will it be?
On the rare occasion my husband cooks, it’s like a food festival gone wild. Breakfast might include corn dogs and cotton candy, all in the name of “Mom’s not home, let’s ditch the healthy eating!” Who knew chocolate-covered bacon was a breakfast staple?
3. Will everyone be dressed appropriately?
I just want to ensure the kids are clothed—why is that so hard? My reminders often lead to eye rolls, yet I recall one time when my son went to a hockey game sans shoes. It’s a miracle they manage to survive without my constant supervision.
4. Who’s in charge of “The Schedule”?
With only two kids, managing their jam-packed activities should be easy, right? Wrong. Between carpooling and various commitments, a small delay can cause chaos. Here’s hoping everyone makes it to their soccer games and birthday parties on time. Bonus points if my son remembers to wear shoes!
5. What if an embarrassing situation arises?
My husband means well, but his common sense can sometimes go missing. I once returned home to find my infant daughter wearing her bathing suit backward. Dads, remember: baby clothes should cover the nips!
6. Will anyone remember our dog?
That fluffy companion who seems to get overlooked? Despite being part of the family for years, I worry that he won’t get the love and care he needs while I’m away. A little kibble and water go a long way!
7. Will the kids be utterly exhausted?
My husband seems to take the opportunity of my absence to pack the days full of activities. It’s like a non-stop adventure: museum visits, rock climbing, and late-night mini-golf. He seems to think parenting is like swimming—you must keep moving or drown!
8. Who will oversee homework?
I usually handle homework checks, but when I ask my husband for help, I often find he’s not actually reviewing the answers. Now, I double-check what he “checked.” Just another layer of parenting I have to manage!
9. Will the kids even miss me?
There’s a good chance they won’t. My husband is the fun parent, while I’m often viewed as the “fun sponge.” If I say it’s bedtime, suddenly a soccer ball appears, and they’re off to a late-night adventure. Realistically, do they even notice I’m gone?
10. On the flip side, what if they do miss me?
What if I receive a barrage of teary texts begging me to come home? Nah, that’s unlikely. I can just picture them having a blast in their pajamas, enjoying snacks and fun without me, probably singing “One less problem without you.”
In summary, while I relish a weekend away, the worries inevitably creep in. From ensuring my partner keeps the kids fed and dressed to managing schedules and even our furry friend, the concerns are endless. However, I know that by the time I settle in, these thoughts will fade, leaving room for relaxation and enjoyment.