I'm still here

Life has become crazy. I am in the midst of planning to cart two children off to South Asia while the rest of my city will be embroiled in the middle of the 2010 Winter Olympics. I also finished off year end for my work, working on letting everyone about my Discovery Toys sale, and trying to spend as much time with the boys as I can.

I've had a few emotional moments these last few weeks just thinking about them. I adore them. They bring me so much joy, but I struggle with my decisions as of late. Do I really want to be working so much when they are at such a fragile age? Especially now that my office has moved from out of my home, I find I miss them that much more. I've cried a few times about it, but I also know that when I'm home all the time they drive me completely nuts and this time apart has made me realize how nuts I am about them both. Something about absence and growing fonder? I guess I just need to really think about these next few months and how important is it for me to be working? I've always thought I would be a stay-at-home Mom and for the most part I think I am. I sometimes forget that I'm gone for about 20 hours on average per week not being with them. I do enjoy working, for the most part... which is what I think most people would say. I've learned a lot and come to realize that I'm pretty good at what I do.

As for planning for our trip, things are really coming together. I've tried to think strategically about what I'll spend our money on. I've rented CARES, these fancy straps that you can bring onto the airline instead of lugging around carseats. That saves some frustration. I also booked flights from YVR to Bangkok with a 12 hour layover in Hong Kong right at bedtime Hong Kong time. I'm figuring (fingers crossed here people!!) that by the time we complete our 14 hour flight to HK, everyone in my little group will be exhausted. It seemed to make sense to try and get caught up on some sleep and try and eliminate some jet lag. I rented a hotel RIGHT next to the airport, even though it's the MARRIOTT and a little more than I'd like to spend.

Thinking about everything should make me freak out and get stressed, but for the most part I'm just excited to go and hang out at the beach, play with the boys in the sand... oh - and go to a wedding! The boys have their matching short suits on the way - purchased on ebay. As soon as they arrive I'll have to post pictures.

Does anyone have any suggestions for me for things I should keep in mind, or bring along on our adventure?