Goodness gracious! I had quite a weekend with these little rascals. Let me tell you, it’s a good thing I slapped that week of relaxation under my belt, because it helped me gear up for some serious stress these last two weekends. When Andrew travels, I’m not going to lie, things get real around here. It is surely getting easier as the boys get older, but they are still so young, so sensitive to change, that having one caregiver versus the usual two brings out a lot of strong emotions.
Oliver in particular was really missing Andrew. He tends to act out in really difficult ways when he is tired or not feeling well (i.e. when he has to go to the bathroom), while Milo just becomes a bit sad or withdrawn when he is upset. It’s interesting navigating the best way to parent such different personalities while keeping my own personality in check. I swear, just when I think I have this parenting thing down, it slaps me in the face like ha! you think you know how to do this? how about this epic tantrum in the middle of the grocery store for you? haven’t seen those kind of moves yet, have you? and I say, why no. I don’t suppose I have.
And while I’m on the topic of strong personalities, Emil has developed a real “thing” for marbles. When he spotted 2,000 of them in one place, his head almost exploded… especially when he couldn’t get to them.
Sigh. This parenting thing is no joke, guys.
We did have good times, though. Our good friends Elisha and JJ brought pizza, salad, and beer over to our house for dinner on Friday and let me tell you, that really saved my day. Having some adult conversation and laughter while the kids had a rockin’ dance party in the living room… that was definitely a highlight of the weekend. So thank you, dear friends, for intervening in what may have turned into a real pity party! 
And this… yes, this was also a highlight of my weekend. Oh, Oliver.
Yes! I was having these same feelings last week. My husband embarked on his first of four research trips, which threw the entire house into chaos. Not being the primary caregiver, I was feeling my way through each part of the day. My favorite comment from my five-year-old was “It’s ok mom, you just don’t know the routine.” Sweet, but a knife to the heart all the same. Every night, I tucked them in, looked at the pile of projects I thought sure I’d get to and then just went to bed. It’s exhausting to be on your own when you are used to having a partner to lean on. I’m so glad he’s back and the next trip won’t be until after the holidays.
On the positive side, I love the photos you share of your museums. My kids would LOVE to hang out in these gems and meander through the exhibits. Eventually, we’ll have to visit your lovely city!
As I read your post I immediately had a flashback to my own “Dark Ages” of motherhood. Those young years are no joke- they can be some of the most amazing times but they are also the most physically, mentally, and emotionally trying times.
Hold on- because after the Dark Ages comes the Renaissance. Seriously- it gets easier. Or else you get stronger, I’m not sure which.
You should make those awesome brownies when Andrew goes out of town. I used your recipe this weekend to battle my blues about not being able to drink red wine and still being pregnant, and I felt instantly better. So very delicious!
Thank you for the reassurance that it gets easier, Ami! I needed to hear that today!
And Jamie, you’re right. I never make those brownies just for myself, only when we are having people over. I think I’m going to have to make a batch…
Isn’t it so true? Parenting is like that disciplined thing that you didn’t know you had to be disciplined (and mostly I mean disciplined not to scream, pull, and shout when you need to be quiet, calm, and loving!).
I see a beautiful mommy with a gorgeous family…and she can cook yummy meals, and dress herself impeccably! I hope you get a nice glass of wine and a good conversation with a friend tonight.