No, I’m not running away from my life. No, I didn’t plan on going to Germany this summer. No, I don’t think it’s going to be at all easy to travel to Europe with a 2-year-old. But? Big changes are happening in my life and my medicine is a trip. Plus, my cousin is staying there this year with her husband (he has a one year contract through his work), and she graciously offered to not only provide accommodation in their guest room, but also to give us transportation to and from the airport.
Free accommodation in Europe? No confusing and expensive crash course on public transit or cab fares with a toddler? SOLD. Europe is expensive, and I may not get the chance to stay there for free… ever.
We have an almost two hour drive to the airport on July 8th, passing into Canada. We have a 50 minute flight to Toronto, a one and a half hour layover, a 7 1/2 hour flight to Frankfort, an hour layover, and a 45 minute flight to Stuttgart where my cousin is. The two short flights will be a piece of cake. And for the long flight? Oh yes, little miss is going to be in her carseat for all of our flights. And this will be fantastic! She respects the Laws of the Car Seat in the car for many long car trips, and I have no doubt she will do better than she has previously as a lap infant. I will be well armed with a DVD player, kindle, snacks and bottles. And I will probably pay for and buy wine.
I also am going to be working some serious overtime, which I’m sure will make my fatigue and mood much better. Just goes to show, I’ll do anything for the “high” of a trip. So excited!
P.S. Time to get this kid’s passport processing, pronto.
Mother of All Things 
Sounds like a wonderful adventure!!!!
I’m like you, I love to travel and love the “high” of the adventure. I hope you have a fantastic time!