Pete and I took our first trip away from Nori the first week of February. We were gone for three days, two nights, and there was only one day in the middle where we didn't see our precious pants.
It was the perfect length and perfect time to do it. Like many steps of parenting, I felt like I was stretched, but in a good- growing up- kind of way. I didn't let myself think of her too much or call the first two days. Although Pete was often looking at the photos in his phone, I didn't because I didn't want my heart to break too much!
It was great to spend time with Pete and hear a friend's advice in my head, "one of the best things to do for your kids is to spend time away from them and have a strong relationship."
Pete as a Dad is so wonderful and more than I ever expected- Nori has brought us together. But spending time away from her reminded me of everyday, pre- Nori, Pete. Kind of like Pete in jeans vs all dressed up as a Dad (which I love too.)
Most of the trip was travel time, but passive travel in airport lines. I found this a great time to think and a luxury to have my mind wander free. Normally, Nori tethers my mind to the day, to watching her, loving her and caring for her.
I journaled lots (an impossible task with Nori in the room because she is obsessed with writing utensils of any kind), read 2 books, and had lots of good conversation with Pete.
Nana and Pappy generously took both kids for the weekend, the dog Bella and Nori. Nori did great minus refusing the bottle and milk in any form (cow's, mama's or formula.) And she was surely spoiled, including her first television (we weren't supposed to find out, but Bella told.)
The highlight was snorkeling in the Bahamas for the day. We love snorkeling and this little beach and reef we found met my appetite for beauty and filled my spirit with such joy. As I swam and marveled at the fish,I felt like I was Nori because I carry her worldview with me so much. I squealed and signed "fish" as she does in the bathtub and under the secretness of the water was as free and awed by the world as she is. What a gift!
