Like many working moms, I struggle with the balance of work and family. This is especially true when I have to travel for work. I make the "big bucks" in the household budget, so "big bucks" leads to occational travel, especially in my line of work. Luckily for me, I have a husband who is generally accepting of this and usually supportive. Even if it does mean that bathtime is skipped while I am out of town.
Paul may be understanding, but the kids are not as generous.
In an effort to grossly overcompensate for the travel, I carry the kids’ art work with me in a folder (a practice I learned from my ever-travelling father) and, when possible, I take them to breakfast the morning that I fly out.
And…like so many other mornings..breakfast out is what I did this morning.
Taking two kids ages four and two out for breakfast is not, generally, enjoyable. By the time I finish cutting up their pancakes, they are done eating and asking to leave. I, on the other hand, have not even salted my eggs much less scarfed down my food. Leaving is out of the question. Leaving would not provide Mommy with her required and necessary sustainance…coffee.
Mommy is NO FUN without her coffee.
We labored through our breakfast. We talked about their upcoming days. I encouraged them to listen to Daddy, sleep in their own beds, and not bicker with each other. I promised them presents upon my return. I assured them of frequent phone calls, both at home and at day care.
After breakfast, we headed over to the bank. I needed cash to get me through cab rides, bellman tips, and dinner.
Pulling up to the ATM, my four year old asked:
"Mommy, why do you need to go to the bank?"
"Well, this is where we keep our money?"
"Why do you keep your money here?"
"It is safer at the bank, honey."
"Why is it safer at the bank than at home?"
Gee…good question.
