Not that motherhood is like prison, but I realized this weekend that I have basically been on a work-release program for the past 22 months. This weekend we went to Suffolk to visit Tom and Liiz and family. Liiz and I went to a craft parade (I can be crafty) and then out to lunch. At some point we both realized the once-in-our-kids'-lifetimes (so far) experience we were having. We were away from home without kids or spouse and we were doing something just for us. No "work" was involved like grocery shopping or exercising or errand running. It was amazing. Now, don't get me wrong. I missed The Boy and wondered what new and exciting things he was experiencing, but I also enjoyed sitting down to eat a meal I didn't have to cut into tiny pieces or share.I was going to call this "Private Time" but that is what Papa calls it when he and The Boy stand outside knocking on the door when I go to the bathroom - as in "Let's share Mama's private time." So, this "Mommy Time" has some drawbacks. At the craft parade* Liiz and I saw awesome fleece blankets and scarves by the woman at www.missingmonsters.com. While not artistic or coordinated, I have been known to make fine handicrafts, and with guidance from the other 3 adults in the house, I was able to make some pretty awesome blankets for The Boy and Fantozzini (see picture). Liz made a couple of fancy scarves, too. What exactly is the "drawback" to Mommy Time? Simple, I have created yet another thing to do... Even though I enjoy making fleece throws, it is another thing I have to clean up after. The drawback (or advantage, depending on your perspective/need) for you is that this is the only gift that I will probably be giving for the next 5 years.
*According to Wikipedia, "a parade is an organized procession of people along a street, often in costume, and often accompanied by floats or sometimes large lighter-than-air balloons with complex shapes." This craft parade, while organized, did not offer any costumes, floats, or balloons. I feel like I was ripped off and had it not been for the fact that even the raffle tickets were free, I would have demanded compensation for their false advertising.
