The house is still. Quiet.
There is but one crumb-ridden spot to wipe at the table. One cup to fill. One sleepy little body to tuck in each night.
It’s that time again: dad camp.
The time of year when the population of our household decreases by 50%. The {only} time of year when everybody in the house shares the same last name. The time of year when our Thursday major clean-up night becomes unnecessary, and thus slips to a bi-weekly event.
There are fewer bathrooms that need cleaning. Significantly less laundry to do. Half as many children who need tending to in the powder room. Ahem.
It’s a lot less work.
A lot more quiet.
But not nearly as…
Alive.
I try to accept it as the break it is. And it’s not hard, at first.
At first there is lots of eating out. Running errands without the weight of another hand to hold through the parking lot–another seat belt to fasten.
At first there are evening Scrabble games and trips to the movies and Starbucks chai tea lattes.
About a week in, though, the at firstness wears off and gives way to lonely. To quiet. To I miss my babies.
And–I know it sounds weird–but it gets worse as they get older. Maybe because I’m realizing that there are so few summers left. Far too few.
I hate to wish away the summer.
But every single year? I kind of do.
{ 11 comments… read them below or add one }
I don’t blame you – I would too. (hugs) friend – hang in there. And if a mini vacay would ease your pain, you are always welcome here!
It’s hard to imagine my house as quiet, and your quiet house is even harder to imagine.
Stay sane, friend. And *try* to enjoy the break.
I can imagine how that would feel. I miss them for even the time that they are at school. I watch the bus pull away and I think “there go my babies.” I can’t imagine having to watch them leave for weeks at a time.
Hang in there.
I think you need to come to NC to take your mind off things….you know you’ve got a room here.
My heart aches for you. I hope it passes quickly.
Steph
Awwww, I am sorry for your loneliness. Hang in there. {{{{hugs}}}}
I’m with Kellie….you could always take a trip or two to see some of us! LOL
Every once in a while my 3yo goes off to Grandma or Nana Camp. All my friends say I’m lucky. Why would I ever turn down an offer like that? But I do. A lot. Because he’s part of this family. And when he’s not here, we feel the hole left behind.
I completely understand how you feel. But don’t tell me it gets harder as they get older. That makes me nervous!
I feel so much for you! How long are they gone?
((((Hugs)))) I feel the bittersweetness. Hope the time goes by quickly for you!
*hugs* my friend. I can only imagine how you feel; I don’t like being without my children either.
I hope the time passes quickly and your little girls are back in your arms (and making noise in your house) soon!