Travelling With Children

Looking back to before our trip, I thought, travelling with two kids..eh, no biggie. I am home with them all day anyways, so how hard could it be. I've flown with Haley by myself before, so I had an idea of what it would be like. I knew to pack quiet activities to keep her busy and lots of snacks to keep her full. I knew Emily would need to nurse, so I brought all the necessary items for that. Looking back, I realized just how overly optimistic I was.

Our first day, we drove four hours to the airport, spent about two at the airport, and three on the plane. It was such a long day that it was almost inevitable that one or both girls would meltdown. The first meltdown belonged to Haley. We were in the line to board the plane and she just didn't want to be there. Thank goodness for an apple. She spent 45 minutes as happy as can be chowing down on it.

The second meltdown also belonged to Haley. It's just not a good idea to keep a two year old in a confined space for that long. Next time, we bring movies.

Our second travel day was my first with both girls, by myself. Zach had to go back home to work

and I extended our vacation. Thank goodness for an early morning and one hour flight. Both girls were on their best behavior. Emily nursed and fell asleep and Haley was quite content looking out the window. As we were departing the plane, a gentleman on the next row over told me that I should be very proud of how well behaved both girls were. And I was.

Our third travel day was a little more interesting. We made it through security on our own (thank goodness for the family lane). Thanks to the new security rules, I did get the full pat down with Emily attached in the carrier. We had another early morning flight, so I knew the meltdowns should be minimal. What I didn't count on was the crotchety old lady Haley sat behind. She spent a majority of the time telling her daughter in a not so quiet whisper that she was very tired and that little girl kept kicking her seat, which Haley only did once. She even went to far as to ask the flight attendant to see if she could have US move our seats! Boy, did she have some guts. I did manage to bite my tongue and not give her a piece of my mind.

Two weeks and three flights later, we successfully made it back home. It was a great trip and well worth all the breakdowns. Overall, both girls did a fabulous job. But, I've learned my lesson. When travelling with children, don't do it by yourself if you don't have to.