This past weekend, I finally took a much-needed break. One of my dear friends is tying the knot soon, and as a member of the bridal party, I was thrilled to attend her bachelorette party. We rented a charming house equipped with everything we could possibly need, and our agenda revolved around wine tasting, dancing, and — you guessed it — more wine tasting. It was the kind of weekend you dream about.
During our delightful get-together, several friends inquired whether I found it challenging to leave my children behind, even for a brief period.
Short answer? Absolutely not.
Longer explanation? This was my first overnight getaway since my youngest was born. Not that I hadn’t wanted to escape before (seriously, someone please take my kids for a night!), but my toddler has always been a bit of a mama’s boy. He was attached to me in every sense, nursing until just shy of his first birthday and often crying when I stepped out, even for a quick grocery run. Now at 16 months, I realized it had been over two years since I had been alone longer than a few hours.
Two. Full. Years.
Let me tell you, that weekend was unforgettable in ways I didn’t even realize I needed. I savored a cup of hot coffee, laughed until I cried, and reconnected with friends who knew me before motherhood. I even got to know some incredible women who saw me as more than just a mom. I was able to get ready without worrying about which outfit to put my kids in or managing a tiny bathroom crammed with little ones watching me straighten my hair (why does that happen?!).
Dressing up for a dinner that didn’t involve cutting chicken tenders or worrying about who needed more ranch dressing was a refreshing change. I danced to tunes that weren’t from the latest pop sensation and found myself belting out lyrics to the iconic hits of NSYNC and Backstreet Boys, a blast from my teenage past.
I enjoyed real conversations with adults, free from interruptions or the need to mute my phone in the middle of a tantrum threat. I could breathe, sit in silence, and reflect. When it was time to head home, I was genuinely excited to see my kids and my amazing husband, who had held down the fort while I was away. I finally had the opportunity to miss them, which made our reunion all the more special.
Here’s the thing, fellow parents: there’s no award for being the most exhausted, stressed, or overwhelmed. If there’s ever a chance to take a break — be it a girls’ weekend, a night out with your partner, or even an hour alone — seize it! Don’t let that nagging guilt creep in as you drive away. Your children will be just fine, and everyone will benefit from your time away.
And if your kids are anything like mine, they’ll greet you with open arms, shower you with affection, and quickly resume their usual antics within minutes of your return, making you yearn for your next getaway.
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In summary, taking time for yourself is essential for your well-being and your family’s happiness. Embrace those opportunities to recharge and reconnect with yourself and your friends — you deserve it!