Defined as "Mom"

Carter had an awesome time at Grandma and Grandpa's.  He played with  Uncle M's  Thomas the Tank Engine  train set constantly, ate copious amounts of sugar (which may explain the lack of naps a couple of those days) and  had a great time bonding with everyone. 

I did fine.

Peter and I had a couple date nights.  We tried a  restaurant we had never been to, that was highly recommended by friends called "Bread & Cup".   It was delicious.  They have a very unique menu arranged around ingredients available locally.  We saw the movie "Crazy Stupid Love".  I am a fan of Emma Stone, I think she has great comedic timing and is adorable.  Ryan Gosling is hot in this movie by the way.  We did not feel rushed, we relaxed during dinner and enjoyed the movie.   It was wonderful getting to spend some alone time with Peter.    

However, it was an "On the Job Training" experience for me having Carter gone.  I basically felt like I had to re-trian myself on how to be someone other than "Mom" and how to do things without a toddler under foot.  The last couple years have been all about taking care of little man. When he was not there, I felt a little lost.  I also got tasks completed at alarming speeds.  It made me wonder.......

Have I let being a mom define who I am?

I have to admit that when an events/opportunities come up I question how or in what way it will effect Carter.  What needs to be done or not be done with regards to the kiddo?  Is that a bad thing?

 I think not.

Maybe, I need to find a balance.  I will work on this and let you know.  

Now that I have experienced being away from Carter overnight, it will happen more often...........but not anytime soon.

I  missed him a lot!

By the time we got up there on Saturday to spend the rest of the long weekend and pick him up, he looked like he had grown 2 inches and is now speaking in paragraphs instead of sentences...... and driving!

Not really but for the dramatic effect, it sounds good.

He gave us both big hugs and his room brightening smile.  He was just as happy to see us as we were to see him.   He was equally excited to see our dog Tai. he chased him around the room until Tai submitted to a toddler pat on the back. 

In the end there was only trauma for Momma, which I knew would be the case.  When it comes down to it we need lessons like this to make us better parents.  The kids need it too.