Goal ACCOMPLISHED! Result : More than expected

I set the goal for myself early in 2010. I didn't think I could do it. I procrastinated in setting an actual date for the occasion. In fact, I postponed the date once I finally did set one. But at last, the time had come.

After almost two years of practically being attached to my daughter at all times, we made the decision that the time was right for a little getaway (just Mommy & Daddy). I prepared Elliana for it all week. After each nap, I explained how many naps remained before her sleepover at "Papa Jim's House." I explained that Mommy and Daddy weren't staying there, and that it would be just Elliana, Grandma Carolyn and Papa Jim for two days. Every time we discussed it, she smiled and said "Yes" as if fully understanding the weekend plans. On Friday, Elliana woke up and said "Friday? Papa Jim's house?" and I smiled and almost cried at the same time. The day had come and I had a sinking suspicion that Elliana was far more ready than I was for her first time away.

We arrived at "Papa Jim's house" (as Elliana says) around 5:30 pm Friday night. We walked in the door, carrying the many accessories a toddler requires and began talking to my parents. Almost instantly, Elliana said "Mommy, Daddy leaving. BYE MOMMY! BYE DADDY!" and starts walking toward the steps. "Grandma Carolyn, play! BYE MOMMY!, Papa Jim...toys! BYE DADDY!" the requests from my daughter's mouth began flowing, but none of the requests involved me.

Looking back, I suppose it was the moment that most parents dream about. A happy, well adjusted child, thriving in a new environment. No crying or pleading on Elliana's behalf. In fact, we were the ones who begged for a few kisses from our munchkin. Then we were off!

We began with a dinner that didn't involve high chairs, crayons or kids menus. In fact, we didn't instinctively clean everything from the table when we sat down for fear of what a toddler can quickly grab, spill or throw. It was as if T.J. and I also knew that something special was in store for us this weekend. A rare glimpse at our lives together as husband and wife, rather than Mommy and Daddy.

For the first time, in what feels like a long time, we had the opportunity to talk. We didn't worry about diaper changes, snack times, bed time or practically anything for that matter. We focused on each other. We enjoyed our food and actually ate it while it was hot. Our conversations occasionally went on the topic of Elliana as she was never that far from our mind.

The weekend consisted of a total of 5 phone calls to check in on her, two of which I was able to talk to Elliana on the phone (as she was actually awake and willing). Each phone call was a glowing report of our daughter and brought joy to my heart.

Each moment spent with my husband reminded me of the love we have. The joy that T.J. brings to my face and the silliness that only he can bring out in me. It was refreshing and uplifting. We skipped meals, pigged out on junk food, ruined our appetites, stayed up late, and did things without planning (NEVER happens as a Mom)...all of the odd, goofy things that we don't do very often as we are too busy trying to be good role models.

Sunday afternoon, our drive home couldn't go fast enough. We loved our time alone together, but our hearts were missing Elliana fiercely. I had never been away from Elliana for more than a handful of hours at a time and my heart jumped for joy when I was reunited. Her little face smiled when she saw us and wrapped her arms around me. On the drive home, we were inundated with Elliana telling us about her vacation without us. "Elli fun. Papa Jim's house. Grandma Carolyn too. Elli fun."

Overall, the weekend was a huge success! I fell even more in love with my husband. I didn't realize how much I missed my husband, even though he is with us every evening and weekend as Daddy. The weekend allowed us to focus on us...and the love that made us a family and brought Elliana into our lives.

And since it was the first time that I have ever been without my daughter, the absence made me appreciate her and our time together that much more. Appreciate her overwhelming politeness, her sense of humor, the smiles and unexpected silliness.

I am so grateful for this past weekend. For my husband. For my daughter. For my parents who loved on my daughter as if she was their own. What a terrific start to celebrate this week of Thanksgiving.