My heart grown fonder

Jack and Violet just got back from a five-day trip to Laguna Beach with Tom.  They were there for a reunion with Tom's family.  It was the first time all the cousins have been together since Violet was born.

The house sure felt different without the kids here.  It's the first time I've ever had the house to myself for so long.  I'm not entirely certain I liked it.  I really missed them, although I tried to take advantage of them not being here to finally organize the mess in the office.  I didn't get nearly as much done as I had envisioned, but it was nice to feel that I could start a project and leave everything out for hours, even days, without worrying that little hands would mess it all up.  It was also nice to not feel that I had to be productive every single second they were gone.  Sometimes, on the weekends, when the kids are out playing with Tom, it's hard to afford myself the luxury of just doing nothing, because the time when they are out of the house is so short.

Probably the best thing about having to the house to myself is that I could sleep as late and as long as I wanted to.  I kept busy every evening by hanging out with friends, and it was so nice to be able to stay out late, knowing I would be able to sleep in the next morning.

On Friday, I went up to Laguna Beach to see the kids.  It was good to see my babies after so many days.  I swear, they both look like they've grown an inch since they left.  I was gratified to hear that their nana was pleased with their behavior and manners.  She seemed especially charmed by Violet, and Jack had a great time playing with his cousin, Evan, who is only eight months younger than him.

It was in anticipation of this trip that I had started the weaning process with Violet when I did - and also why I didn't bother to push it much sooner.  I'm proud of the way we were able to do it.  It didn't seem like it was too traumatic at all.  We've all been back home for a few hours now, and Violet hasn't asked for numi num once.  The real test will be when we go back to our routine and we are at a time when she typically wants it.

I will admit, I was pretty nervous and a little blue about Jack and Violet going on this trip without me.  But it sounds like they did great and had fun.  I think the next time they go on a trip like this, I'll be more prepared to really take advantage of the time alone.  In the meantime, it's so good to have my sweet boy and girl back home where they belong.