My two spirited little girls love announcing to everyone that their dad is away on business. The cashier at the grocery store, the librarian, fellow parents at the playground—it’s like they’re broadcasting it to the entire universe.
They gleefully exclaim, “Daddy’s on vacation… I mean business trip! Hahahaha!” And I can’t help but chuckle at their Freudian slip, even though it sends a little shiver down my spine.
Letting the world know about an absent father can be a bit risky, given the unpredictable nature of life. Note to self: refrain from posting “Hubby is away on business!!! Party time!!” on social media.
For those with less-than-noble intentions reading this: I have security measures in place, including alarms and sensors on every entry point. You’d be caught before you could say “intruder.” Trust me, I’m armed with self-defense skills and enough protective measures to keep my family safe.
Okay, maybe I’m slightly on edge, but can you blame me? When your partner says goodbye for extended periods, you learn to stay prepared. Some may see me as obsessive or anxious; I just call it being a diligent mom.
For instance, I keep my security alarm remote by my bedside, and I know the exact angle of the panic button relative to my fingertips. My car alarm remote is right next to it, perfectly aligned.
I also have a habit of double-checking the stove to ensure it’s off—“Off, off, off!”—before I settle down for the night.
Confessions of a slightly neurotic mom, I know. But besides my little quirks, I’ve compiled a list of 20 thoughts that swirl through the minds of moms with traveling partners while they’re away.
- He’s dining at upscale restaurants, enjoying sophisticated cocktails and engaging in deep conversations about politics and art. Meanwhile, I’m munching on Cheerios or whatever leftovers my kids leave behind while discussing the latest episode of their favorite show.
- He’s exploring new cities and cultures while I’m stuck at Chuck E. Cheese… again. If he sends me a photo in front of a famous landmark, I might just lose it.
- He’s sleeping soundly in a hotel with plush pillows while I’m wedged between my two “nightmare-prone” daughters, constantly waking up to their kicks and turns.
- That guy is definitely cheating on me. Or maybe not, but it’s a thought that crosses my mind.
- Weekend trips to the park are torture with all those happy families around. Just avoid those places.
- I strategically place one of his shoes at the front door and another at the back, you know, to discourage any intruders.
- Is the alarm system working? I should probably test the fire alarms too.
- Which activity can I find to keep the kids occupied the longest? A playdate with that family down the street? That could buy me three hours of sanity, even if I’m not fond of their kids.
- I must always have extra batteries for my special devices.
- I’m constantly surrounded by little people, yet the loneliness can be overwhelming.
- Hubby, don’t call me! You sound composed while I’m losing it with the kids. I’ll end up resenting you.
- I need a break from reading bedtime stories. A vacation from parenting sounds appealing right about now.
- Walk down the stairs cautiously—don’t fall! If I do, who will take care of the kids?
- Teach the kids how to dial 9-1-1 on my phone.
- Chew slowly. I can’t afford to choke while being the sole adult in the house.
- Cut back on the wine. Can’t get tipsy when I’m the only parent around. Okay, maybe just two glasses…
- Is it considered medicinal if moms use marijuana? It should be.
- Forget cooking dinner. Frozen pizzas, fast food, and Kraft Mac & Cheese are my culinary masterpieces for the week.
- I hope I get a fabulous souvenir or, even better, a day off from parenting when he returns.
- So, when’s your next trip? You’ve only been home for two days; seriously, when’s your flight?
Adjusting to life with a partner who travels frequently is no easy feat. It can be isolating and exhausting, which is why support groups exist. Finding innovative ways to connect with your spouse—perhaps through flirty video calls or G-rated messages—can help bridge the gap. And when all else fails, there’s always wine, chocolate, and binge-worthy reality TV to ease the stress.
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In summary, being a solo parent while your partner is away is a rollercoaster of emotions, but it’s all part of the adventurous parenting journey.
Keyphrase: thoughts of moms with traveling spouses
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