3 Things I Learned from Traveling Internationally, Alone, with Two Small Kiddos
Happy 2019, Everyone!
I ended 2018 with a bang by spending Christmas in Italy with my family… practically a dream, right?! Thanks to God, my husband and my family that dream came true for me and my children. My entire family, on my dad’s side, decided that we would spend Christmas in Italy as soon as we found out that my cousin, who is a Captain in the United States Army, was going to be stationed there. I was super excited about this opportunity until it became a reality that I would more than likely be flying internationally with two small children, alone, to meet the rest of my family. Dates, flights and work schedules just didn’t line up for me to travel with anyone else. Now in hindsight, I am sure that this was all a part of God’s plan (cue Drake). This trip, just like other things in 2018, taught me who I was and who I wasn’t. I’m more than fortunate these lessons. 2018 just like international travel with two small kids had its ups and downs, but in the end I’m walking away from both with increased confidence. I’ve also reconnected with the person that I am apart from the mom and wife. And for the benefit of myself and my family, I’m ready to see what’s next!
In a previous blog post, I shared some routine travel tips for Roadtrippin’ with Kiddos. Those same practical tips can be used when planning to fly with small children so I will not bore you with the details. In this post, however, I want to drop some of the gems that I personally gained from traveling for more than 19 hours with a three year old and a one year old. BY.MYSELF.
1. Confidence is the key to accomplishing every goal that you set out to attain. It was only through collective prayer, positive affirmations and personal encouragement that I was able to build up my confidence and truly believe that I was more than capable of not only making this trip alone with the kiddos, but also killin’ it. The Lord continually revealed himself to me in the form of reassurance, guidance and by placing his angels (in the human form) along my path as only He could. Whenever you doubt your mommin’ skills, remember to pray, speak over yourself and most importantly believe that you’re able. I will continue to put these skills into practice for the New Year and beyond.
2. It is okay to make decisions for you based on your individual wants and needs. As wives and moms, the majority of our decisions and the moves that we make depend solely on what’s best for others in our families. God in Heaven will reward us for selflessness. However, in the meantime, you matter, too. It’s important every now and then to check in with yourself. Sis, are you good? Sis, is this really what you want? Sis, it this what you need? How are you feeling? Periodic self-check-ins are essential for your well-being. I feel like I’m constantly reintroducing myself to me. As I get caught up in my roles and responsibilities, I love taking moments to reconnect with the girl that I once knew so well. The same girl that I realize still exists within me.
3. Exposure is important for the young and old. Do you want to know why your kids act out, publically? It’s simple. It’s because they’re not used to being out in public, Sis. Please remember, that kids are people… just in a miniature form. Exposure to new sights, scenes, food and experiences create memories that will last you all a lifetime. This doesn’t necessarily mean an international trip. Weekly kid dates, visits with family, or whatever your budget allows are always good opportunities to introduce your children to new people, places and things. It’s really the smallest things that make them happy. My three year old daughter rode a gondola in Venice, had gelato in Verona and toured the Vatican in Rome, but one of her favorite things about traveling to Italy might have been riding the conveyor belt in the airport while pulling her own luggage. It’s really your presence as a parent and the small things that matter most to them.
I am wishing you all greater confidence, more self-awareness and increased exposure to new experiences in 2019. Have a Happy New Year, Suburban Chic Moms!