I took my toddler and 3-month-old on a work trip. It was exactly as chaotic as you'd imagine — but I'd do it again.

Taking my family (not pictured) with me on a work trip was a bit stressful, but I'm glad I did it.

Jordan Siemens/Getty Images

Being a freelance writer and editor means I have the flexibility to work from wherever, whether that's on a hospital bed getting induced, late at night after the kids go to sleep, or in a nice hotel on a work trip.It's not always glamorous, but it certainly has its moments, and it's a joy to include my family when possible.When I went on a three-day work trip to Palm Springs — about a 2½-hour drive from our home in San Diego, but closer to 3½ with all the pit stops — I was happy that the hotel allowed me to bring my 3-month-old, my 2½-year-old toddler, and my husband.It'd be my first time bringing both kids on a work trip, and our first overnight excursion as a family of four.I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was excited to spend time together

We headed to Palm Springs in a car packed with essentials.

Carmen Varner