Yes, this little munchkin is going on a trip to France with us!  

When I’ve shared this fact, there’s a common reaction of either supportive approval or horrified shock. Most often, it’s the latter. I can see the person quickly assessing my mental capacity and intoxication level. We must be crazy, right?

Well to those people I say I am neither insane or drunk (at this moment)! In fact, the more I’ve thought about sharing the trip with my toddler, the more excited I become.

Sure, it’s going to be very different traveling overseas with a 2-year-old. We won’t be able to pack it in like we usually do, we’ll have to be more flexible depending on Lizzie’s mood, and we might miss out on a few sights. But that might not be a bad thing. There’s something to be said for slowing down and just taking in the beauty of the moment (even if that moment involves a fussy child).

We also have numbers on our side. With a 6 adult to 1 toddler ratio, we’ll be able to cycle through the troops when relief is needed. Get ready Gigi, Pops, Auntie Kerry, and Ryan – you’re on deck! 

Will Lizzie even remember this trip, you ask? The answer is most likely no. But should we not do fun things with our children because they won’t remember? Of course not! If that was the case then parents wouldn’t go out of their minds planning extravagant first and second birthday parties, or spend thousands on family vacations to meet that mouse character in Orlando. As parents, we relish in the experience of watching the wonder and joy in our children’s faces. Those memories last a lifetime.

I’m not saying there won’t be moments when we question this “crazy” decision (i.e. the plane ride there and back). But I’ve thought about it long and hard and I keep coming back to the same insight… I’d much rather deal with a few fussy moments with Lizzie in France, then spend my trip wishing she was with us. 

We’ll commence our adventures tomorrow. So wish us luck and get ready for the chronicles of the Hefferan-Stawarz (Mis)Adventures in France, where one little 2-year-old will be proudly featured. 

This is gonna be good! 😉