Well, we did it. We survived summer. Every spring I am noticeably more high strung and tense. While the kids are excited about warm weather, water balloon fights, and more, I nervously anticipate the lack of structure and schedule for weeks prior to the last day of school. Because even though I, too, love the warm weather and pool days, my kids struggle without structure. Specifically Sam, but it’s a trickle-down effect.

To celebrate our survival and the approaching school year, we took a trip to Winnipeg. (Because nothing screams “structure” like a trip to an entirely different country.) This time it was just the six of us – and you know what? We survived that too. And dare I say it? We even had fun.

Traveling with our kids is quite the adventure in itself – we have two kids with allergies to gluten and dairy so we have to plan accordingly (it’s getting easier). All four of the kids take daily medication so we have to plan accordingly (it’s getting easier).

But ever since Adam and I decided to have kids, we have expressed that one of our biggest desires is to travel with them. And while it has taken us longer than we originally planned, and we haven’t done the “big trips” yet, it’s getting easier.  I have to pinch myself when I say that.

There will never be a time when life is truly easy for us. Part of my growth this past year has been coming to terms with the fact that I will never understand what it’s like for my friends who have “normal” kids. But that doesn’t mean I need to dwell on a life that I once envisioned and so desperately wanted. Because of my kids, I have learned that having a different life does not equate a bad life.