ON TAKING CHANCES

What's the big deal with going away for a weekend? To most, it's really not a big deal at all. But imagine, if you will, not having gone anywhere for seven years. No, I didn't say weeks or months, but years. 

Since the day my children were born, I have not spent one night away from them. There have been no babysitters taking care of them and I have certainly never taken a weekend trip. I've not even gone so far as to even try to make friends in this 'new' city I've taken up residence in since 2005. This year, things are changing. Chances are being taken.

My first 'big' trip - to Scotland - is not until November, but today I decided that I truly need a sanity break - or 'insanity' break.

You see, I've been the only adult at home for the past two weeks and life has been more than a bit challenging with a 4, 5, and a headstrong 6 year old...and especially with another business trip coming up next week where I'll be home alone once again.

My usual routine of waking up at 4am to go to the gym has been disrupted. I am now glad if I'm able to make it out the door by 9h so that I can drop off the kids downstairs at the kids' 'babysitting' gym which opens at 8h.

'Stop complaining', you might think. It's all a matter of perspective. Put yourself in my position and you will think differently. No, really. Think about never having had a 'break' for seven years. It's akin to being granted parole.

In two weeks, I'll be going to Chicago. Another impromptu trip decided today. I know a few people there and hope to get some time to recharge before the roadtrip to Colorado two weeks after that.

Making connections - old and new - that is what life should be about. Simply taking chances, as frightening as they might be.