The kids and I got in Sunday from a TEN day vacation.  It was all kinds of fabulous.

We began last weekend camping with Gil and six other couples in the mountains.  Then the boys and I stayed with our friends, Ani, Zip, and their girls for the week.  They welcomed us into their home that they literally JUST moved in to.

In my last post I discussed my latest struggles with anxiety.  Strangely, I had NONE whatsoever while I was away.  Though, there was a good bit of wine consumed.

The trip included LOTS of hiking.  Sometimes I underestimate my need for physical activity.  I did throw my knee out dancing my ass off to Proud Mary at a gathering that Ani’s mom insisted we attend.  I’m not sure those people knew what to make of our crew, but I had more fun than I’ve had in ages.

I haven’t really discussed my need for order on this blog, but I am borderline OCD when it comes to wanting my house clean and organized.  Interestingly enough, Zip and Ani’s house was utter chaos.  They just moved in.  The house is a rental and super-old, so it has that musty, lived-in scent.  They have two big dogs who just plain stink, especially with all the rainy weather.  

It DID NOT bother me.  Why is that?

I think I just need lots of adult interaction.  Ani and I had a blast together.  Perhaps I should live in a commune.  She and I both laughed at how much more manageable it was to prepare food together.  The four kids entertained themselves while she and I unpacked, cooked, cleaned, and just enjoyed each other’s company.

I chopped off my hair — something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, and I love it.  I haven’t had super-short hair since Piers was born nearly six years ago.  

On the drive up, Gil and I discussed me going back to work.  Apparently, he’s convinced all our marriage problems stem from my unhappiness as a stay-home mom.  I do believe there is SOME truth to this, but I think it’s naive on his part to attribute everything to my non-domesticity.

I’m not even focusing on our marriage right now.  I am considering returning to work.  I’m updating my resume and crossing my fingers that Wallace gets in to the Pre-K program where he’s on the waiting list.

Overall, vacation recharged me.  Since I’ve returned has everything been wonderful? 

NO!

As usual, my house is making me batty, and I want nothing more than to walk out the door.  It’s raining cats and dogs where I live, and I seriously need some sunshine.

My four year-old shoved mini Mardi Gras beads in his ear today, so we had to hoof it to the ER.  Fun times, I tell ya. I need some sunshine tomorrow.

I still haven’t gone to the doctor for anxiety meds.  For the moment, I’m good.

More to come…..