Daddy is gone

      So Kelly is away working for a couple days. The days leading up to his departure I always start to silently panic. How am I going to cope not having any adult conversation while he's gone? Uggg.... what if they get sick???? Then what if I get sick? (If you don't know me, I'm kind of a germ-a-phobe and hate the idea of getting ill). Long days with just me and the boys. 
      First day is always a little hairy. I try to jam that day with play-dates, activities- anything to keep us all busy and to forget that daddy is not home. 2nd day is usually awful. The kids have realized he is gone, they are now bored because yesterday was so fun and I'm getting tired. But the 3rd day; is usually bliss. Truth is, I'm a better mom when I can just focus on my kids. I'm not worried about making a large supper and we just have grilled cheese. Like yesterday when we were at a play-date until 5:30 and I never even thought twice about it. Supper is usually on the table by 5:45 and I start preparing at 4. No time for play-dates at that time! The boys usually get a long bath to draw out the evening; complete with bubbles and new toys and a good scrubbing. Book time starts early so I can unwind them really well so they sleep peacefully. Morning is no short of heaven; watching cartoons in mommy's bed (a treat!), laying around in our pj's until someone rings the doorbell (and I run as fast as I can to get on clothes). I need to learn how to be "that" mom when Kelly is home.
    I've learned to make the best. With his job, he's gone a lot of the summer and I just have to get used to it. I do get used to it. Then I have to get used to him being home. And I do get used to that. I'm constantly going back and forth. But that's all right. This is our life. This is our summer. And I've learned to look for the blessings in all aspects of life.