Adventure June 4, 2009
This Friday I’m flying from where I live in Florida to see my family in Chicago and watch my youngest sister graduate from high school. Sky is coming with me, but Adam has to stay home for work, so the travel part of our trip is not something I’m looking forward to.
Traveling used to be relaxing to me. I loved everything about it – the packing and anticipation, that feeling I’d always get in the car when I left town, the way I couldn’t predict exactly how the trip would go. It was all fun to me. But now “unpredictable” means not knowing what my baby will do in unfamiliar situations. There is a slight chance that Sky will go absolutely berserk and scream her brains out during the flight. I’m already dreading that moment when I get on the plane. I picture myself walking down the skinny center aisle with all eyes on me as I struggle to hold my child and all of our gear without wacking anyone in the head, each passenger praying that I don’t sit down in the empty seat next to them.
And once we get there, things still might be tough. Sky will probably have a hard time sleeping in a new bed and she usually clings to me when she feels insecure. We went to Chicago at Thanksgiving and instead of waking up twice a night as usual, she was suddenly up every hour. This time I’m just planning ahead to be tired.
But even with the work involved, I’m excited to go. Graduation Day will be important for my sister. I want her to remember I was there for her, even if I do spend the actual ceremony wandering around outside with Sky. My family hasn’t seen her since she was four months old. She was just a yummy, squishy baby back then and now she’s practically walking. I can’t wait to see my little girl in my mom’s arms again. And I can’t wait to sit in the kitchen and drink coffee with everyone. I guess it’s the ordinary things I miss the most. I know a small part of me will be relieved when the trip is over and I’m back at home where things with Sky are easier. But for now, the anticipation builds. Sky may be ten months old, but she’s not too young to learn that seeing family is worth the effort.
Ohh, please forward a greeting from us back here in Sweden. Yesterday we had Markus (my brother)graduation and it was awesome, ok the weather could of been better but it was at least no rain. I bet you will get a good time with family. Are you coming up to MI this summer around 4th of July??
/Malin
The best way I have found to diffuse the airplane situation is to bring some ear plugs and offer them to people before the flight begins. Most people like the thoughtfulness of the idea.
Ok, I’ll throw in my advice too:) Get her to drink her bottle or sippy as the plane goes up and comes down. Kids don’t know how to pop their ears and the swallowing helps them to do it. I’ve seen lots of kids crying during these times and I always wonder if their ears are hurting them. Good luck and have a great time with family!
Thanks you guys! Great advice. =)
I hope you guys have a wonderful time. Wish we could be there with you and will be thinking of Brit on her big day!
What a gorgeous photo of Skylar!
Smooth travels to you both!! I know it is stressful traveling with kids esp. when you have to factor in other’s responses to your kid. But I bet you’ll be surprised with how well both of you do. Have fun!