Leaving the country.

In two days Brandon and I are departing for the coast of Mexican paradise to celebrate our ten year anniversary. We have various plans including: naps, lengthy meals, and reading novels pool side. We have adventures planned off the resort site that are worthy of any bucket list. And yet, I sit here not excited, but anxious with nervousness because we are leaving the kiddos behind.

It's silly. They will be in the care of their loving grandparents. But this will be the longest I have ever been away. Sure we get sitters on occasion for the night, or they sleep over at Ommie and Papas for a night or go camping with them over a weekend. But this is different. This is too far if something should happen. This is a day short of a full week a country apart. 

Lord, knows I pray nothing happens. And chances are nothing will. But the IF factor of worst case scenarios play widescreen HD in my mind. 

I have written, printed and had witness sign a copy of my will. The idea of my children growing up without me haunts me. Again, not a strong likelihood of possibility but there is always the chance that I won't come home to them. And so, I spoil them. For the past week I have devoted my time to them. Play dates at the park, bike rides, and swimming in the evenings. Hannah and I painted her princess wall together...(pictures to follow.)

When Brandon and I were dating we used to send love letters back and forth and if either one of us went away for an extended time, we would pre-write a letter for the other to take with them to read...one for each day they planned to be gone. 

And so, I have written not one..but two letters each day for my kids. The nighttime letters are for reading with the stories I selected for each day. And a morning letter accompanied with a small gift to play with each day. Thurs: coloring/sticker activity books. Fri: bubbles and wands. Sat: a new movie complete with popcorn, soda and candy. Sun: squirt guns. Mon: cupcake mix, frosting and sprinkles and Tues: school work for the older two (my kids love "homework) and a color book for Tabs. As well as markers and construction paper to decorate. I figure if anything does happen, this will give them comfort reminders that mommy loves them. But in reality, it will probably make them mad when I get home and the daily presents/surprises end. Lol

So for those reading this. Keep us In prayer for a safe trip and a safe return home. Also pray for my kids, they'll be fine...but please keep them in prayer. And for the acting grandparents on duty... They weekly routine is about to get rocked! Lol