Wierdest Situation... Ever.

Ok, So today I had a chance to 'practice what I preach' in a very unexpected way. My ex, the kids' dad, has been planning a vacation with them for this weekend (it's a 4 day weekend from school for them). It was originally supposed to be 'my' weekend, but I told him I'd switch with him so he could take the kids on vacation (something he really hasn't been able to do, ever.) So, the airline tickets are free because he used to work for the airlines, and he thought he had all the hotel and car info taken care of, but... something went wrong. Here's the kicker, he doesn't get paid until tomorrow, and doesn't have enough available credit on a credit card to swing the deal. It all came down to about $250. So, he emailed me this morning letting me know it wasn't going to happen. Now, I think this is a great opportunity for the kids, and I know how excited they are to go. I think it will be good for not only them, but for their entire family. So, I asked some questions, and figured out that he really had exhausted all avenues of getting this paid for. I made the offer to pull some money from the kids' savings accounts and pay for the reservations with that money (so, he's borrowing money from the kids, not from me). He gratefully accepted the offer, and I went ahead and booked the hotel and car for him.

The strangest part of all this, is I don't really mind helping him out. I'm not focused on his error or oversight in this situation, but am focused instead on making sure my kids get to have a fantastic experience. I want them to have all the joy life has to offer, to play in the sand and enjoy the sun.. even if it's not with me.