How to make the most of DH going away

[MinnieMountain]

DH is going away skiing for 10 days today. Obviously I agreed this 9 months ago, now I’m mildly irritated that he’s taking 10 days for 6 days of actual skiing.

So how do I make the most of being the only adult in the house? We’ve got an 11yo and an elderly cat. I work 3 days a week, all from home.

Can you plan some special eves with your DS - go out or just chill together.
Also have a couple of eves with friends over

Anything that winds you up when H is around, say having to cook a “proper” meal or not have a bath at 6pm when 11yr old is doing homework/screen time etc. Do that.

Have jacket potatoes with beans and cheese, have a bath with music, read, eat donuts, camp downstairs

Go out to the local art gallery, tea shop, arcades.

Go shopping, H is spending a fortune I am sure you both need clothes, books, new trainers, fancy coffee bean grinder, something will pop up.

Basically just enjoy the time without him.

learn/play chess/backgammon/cribbage

My DH and DD went away last year.

I did a full IKEA shop without anyone telling me I didn't need any more spoons.
I did about 17 tip runs so no one could see me getting rid of junk.
I cleaned so much.
Bought a new hoover.
Watched the whole season of Rivals while drinking cremant.

I'm going to mirror what @frozendaisy said!

DH has gone away a few times and left me home alone, and I've really enjoyed doing the things he would raise an eyebrow at (but not stop me), like a bath at any time during the day, having just something small for tea, getting into bed as early as I fancy and not to watch TV!

I also loved inviting friends over for coffee and we even arranged a come dine with me style dinner party!

I’d be browsing round the shops like my life depended on it.
My DP hates browsing.
I find it therapeutic, even if I don’t buy anything.
Take 11yo to IKEA, have lunch, take funny photos in all the housing set ups, shove them in the basket of rugs (I did this to my BF and it was hilarious).
Have a pottery painting afternoon (calm and peaceful).
Take 11yo swimming, you get in too.
Go to the cinema.
Rearrange 11yo bedroom? Something fun, new, add a few cushions and bits from IKEA trip.

Loads of good suggestions but don't forget to cuddle and give treats to your cat!

I think it’s more of getting into the right mental state.

Think of it akin to how weekends used to be before WFH existed. Not having to get dressed til you felt like it etc.

Most relationships are compromises, so treat it as 10 days where you don’t have to think about the other adult, factor in their wishes or needs. It can be bliss.

My ex used to be away a lot, and I found it was a time to really bond with my child (I was much happier to sit on the sofa and watch cartoons with her than my ex was). With only two of you in the house, it will be just you and your child. I think you will find you just communicate more.

It can be such a wonderful time - you’ll end up looking forward to more.

Some excellent ideas. Thank you.

DH has been doing this for 6 years (don’t worry, I go away by myself too) but I’ve never felt I make the most of it. Plus DS is easier.

I love the idea of a daytime bath. I’m going to the library later to stock up on books.

Exactly @Imgoingtobefree , not factoring in another adult’s wishes will be relaxing.

Don’t worry @Darkeststarwillshine . Elderly cat gets plenty of treats and cuddles. She’s currently in her favourite spot with me- on the heated throw on the sofa.

Evidence of elderly cat.