Ahh, quiet

Nick and I had our first bit of peace & quiet in a while together this weekend... amazing! Nick's parents got us tickets to an Iowa basketball game for Christmas... along with overnight babysitting. What a gift!

We were just out of our neighborhood when we realize it is just the two of us- no kids, no dog. What were we going to do for an hour and a half?!? We usually have to sing "the ABCs", "Baa Baa Black Sheep", play games or try to keep the kids fed & happy. We can't eat in the car without the dog begging or jumping all over. We can actually have adult conversation, listen to the music we want and eat without having to share!

Just on the other side of town, a little part of me can't help but feel the never-ending "mother's guilt." Why do we make ourselves feel guilty about EVERYTHING? I tell myself it's crazy, unfounded, but it's still there. I feel bad that I'm excited to have a break from my babies... that I want a reprieve from being the only one they want to fix things... that I want a vacation from being housekeeper, cook, full-service laundromat, all-things mommy.

By the time we get to Iowa City, the guilt is almost out the window and we're ready to have fun... A couple of beers at the Vine, a win by the Hawkeyes, an encounter with an old friend at the game, a not-so-good, but entertaining dinner and a soak in the hot tub. What an awesome Saturday night! Sunday we get to see some good friends (& their super fun 15 month old twins) and shop at the outlets (mostly for ourselves).

On the way home, I'm anxious to see the kiddos again. I love pulling up and seeing them get so excited. Ahh, I love the quiet, but the noise, the laughing, the hugs and the kisses are what make me realize how much I love home.

p.s. During our uninterrupted conversation on the way home, we talked about how much we enjoy just a little break. For future birthdays, holidays, etc. we'd love another night or two away! This was definitely a gift that fit us just right.