Now that I've got the idioms out of my system, let's get down to business. Life is good. Really good. Just really busy too. So much so that it's kind of making me nuts. I feel like I don't have any time to just slow down and enjoy and appreciate these really good times. Somehow the "to do" list just never gets any shorter, but rather, grows at an alarming pace.Unfortunately, my brain can think up things that need to get done much faster than I can actually do this. One of my character flaws is that I always want to do everything perfectly and have everything just so. Throw in teaching and family responsibilities, and it can just be really tough to deal with. Also, I'm totally and completely unrealistic with my time estimates for everything. However, I do know that I'm not the only person in the world with these issues, but I do wonder how others manage without going stark raving mad.
I do have a little help now managing my stress and anxiety issues, but I'll go into that another time. Suffice it to say, that I was definitely feeling the effects of all of this stress and busy-ness this weekend. Brian finally took things into his own hands and booked me for a massage last night, and today!
I feel like a new person now. A new person with lots to do! However, at least now I'm relaxed enough to realize that I don't have to get it all done today. Namely, I'm trying to get Andrew and I ready for our trip to Omaha next weekend. I'm trying to round up cold, really cold, weather clothes for us and it's just impossible. There is no winter clothing to be found in Arizona. We'll just have to hope for the best and layer, layer, layer. I a bit concerned (read: really, really worried and stressed) about how I will manage us and our stuff on the flight. I mean, I'm checking our suitcase, but I'll still have the stroller, car seat (assuming there is room for Andrew to have his own seat on the plane), diaper bag, purse, sippy cup, snacks, binkies, etc., etc., etc. Oh, and let's not forget, I'll also have Andrew. So, if you have any tips for me about traveling alone with a toddler, please share!
So glad you were able to get a massage! I love them! There's a school of massage here and only chrges $25 for an hour. I think I'll make an appointment now!
ReplyDeleteLove the kitty pictures too! Hope all the travels go smoothly!
First off I need to "encourage" my husband for a massage. I love the feeling after you have one of just feeling so calm and so realaxed :) I am glad you got one because you deserve it :)
ReplyDeleteAs for flying with a toddler. We have done it a few times and it always an adventure, especially with one of our twins. Some ideas that work for me...USe a backpack instead of diaper bag it is easier to manveur on the plane when carrying Andy, do not overpack your carry on it becomes more of a hinderance than a help. Take your time when you stop to drop off your stroller before you board the plane, do not let people push you or make you feel like you need to hurry..it is rude and I do not like it.
Go to the dollar section at Target or the dollar store and get several toys he has never seen before. When he tires of one toy give him a new one..it works wonders.
One more tip wait until everyone else is off to unload that way you can take your time getting off and in picking up your stroller. Good luck and hope it helps!!
One quick note...most airlines DO NOT have changing tables in the airplane bathrooms so take an extra blanket in case you need to change him on the floor. ( 0ne of your trips the plane was packed and Kaylee pooped her pants three times, my only choice was to change her on the floor in the stewardess area).
Good Luck!!!
I am a little concerned about this too because we have a trip planned in May with the V's and I feel we should bring our own car seats and stroller. My DH thinks that you can rent car seats, which I highly doubt, and would not want to do even if you could. But at least he will be coming with me. I admire your adventurous spirit, doing it alone!
ReplyDeleteHi Chris,
ReplyDeleteLike the other person said, traveling with toddlers is ALWAYS an adventure!!
I really really encourage you to rent your car seat. It is going to be so hard for you to carry that with you and EVERYTHING ELSE. We are doing it for A & R--about $10/day and worth the price and convenience especially since you are traveling alone.
Also, the backpack is a must!! That is how we used to do it when the kids were smaller. Throw your purse and all the kiddie stuff in there so your hands are free.
Also, bring ALL his favorite snacks. We always bring fruit snack gummies. Takes a while for them to eat a bag and always help when they are fussing.
Only bring on the plane the bare necessities and pack everything else in your suitcase.
Remember extra diapers for unexpected non on time departures and the blanket. I haven't been on a plane that has had changing tables either. The seat is where we have had to change them.
-One sippy cup
-Snackies
-toys
-Blanket
-Diapers
-Wipes
Everything else in your suitcase. Car Seat, if you can manage, forget it. He will do Okay without his car seat. I mean great idea if Brian were coming too. But since he isn't--lose it.
Kari
It was great to read these other comments, since I am getting ready to travel with the Oman alone next month! We will both make it! What an adventure it will be :)
ReplyDeleteThe massages sound soooo nice!
I would rent a car seat as long as you clean it before use. It is expensive though, last time we did it (about 10 years ago it was $10 a day). But you can check a car seat with your luggage. They just put it in a plastic bag. We do that all of the time. It would be cheaper than renting one. The only other option is if someone is picking you up they can buy one (a cheap one) and have it in their car already for you. Don't over pack. You won't probably pull out most of what you bring. I like the idea of getting a few new toys that he hasn't seen though. But the flight isn't that long so you shouldn't have to worry, one sippy cup is enough. The most important thing is a change or 2 of clothes for him. Samantha always pukes on flights so we have learned.
ReplyDeleteHave fun and don't worry. Laurie
I'm planning on a massage soon myself. I hear you with the getting caught up in all that there is to do, but glad you're making sure to give yourself some priority in there too.
ReplyDelete