As a mother of three small kids, I hardly ever have a minute to myself. Literally. I usually have someone trailing behind me when I cook, shower, clean or even use the bathroom! It can be very overwhelming at times, and I try to offset all the craziness by going for a jog or trading a few hours here and there with my husband. Another way to recharge and refresh is to take a little vacation away from the kids.
My husband was invited to a conference in Jackson Hole, WY, and so I decided to join him and we left the kids with grandparents in California. I had no idea how truly relaxing this would be, and I'm quite sure it helps that the conference is in one of the most beautiful places in the entire world - the Grand Tetons. Our hotel sits in the shadow of the mountains with views of a huge meadow that is home to grizzlies, elk, moose, birds and so much more. Today is the last day of the conference, and while I'm anxious to be back with my kids, I'm not ashamed to say that I have really, really enjoyed this weekend without them.
Being a parent means you service them, worry about them and do all things for them pretty much. It means that adult conversations are regularly interrupted, sleep is a thing of the past, and your time is generally not yours. During this trip I've conversed at length with adults about interesting topics. I've met new people who aren't scared away from me because I'm trying to manage a temper tantrum. I spent FOUR whole hours driving by myself, listening to my own music, stopping when I want, taking pictures of what I want and not having to answer to anyone. The knots in my shoulders seemingly loosened and a sensation that I can only imagine is relaxation came over me. Ideas seem to fall into my mind as I'm photographing the wildlife or sit and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
I have enjoyed myself more on a personal level in the past 3 days than I have in a very, very long time. It reminds me that my mind still works like an adult, and that there's no reason for me to not do this for myself every once and a while, especially if it allows me to be a better parent. I nearly forgot that I"m adult who uses words bigger than 'potty' and knows more than just the latest sippy cup technology or which diaper brand gives you the best bang for the buck. I can actually participate in adult conversation and
I challenge every Mom to find a way to get away for a day or 2, or maybe just 1 night and find some time alone to reconnect to yourself. It obviously can't be in Jackson Hole, WY all the time, but the location doesn't really matter. You may have to save up for it or bargain with your partner to watch the kids, but it's worth it. Nothing comes close to being more relaxing and freeing than enjoying time to yourself, and if you have kids there are few ways that can work without leaving the house.
My husband was invited to a conference in Jackson Hole, WY, and so I decided to join him and we left the kids with grandparents in California. I had no idea how truly relaxing this would be, and I'm quite sure it helps that the conference is in one of the most beautiful places in the entire world - the Grand Tetons. Our hotel sits in the shadow of the mountains with views of a huge meadow that is home to grizzlies, elk, moose, birds and so much more. Today is the last day of the conference, and while I'm anxious to be back with my kids, I'm not ashamed to say that I have really, really enjoyed this weekend without them.
Being a parent means you service them, worry about them and do all things for them pretty much. It means that adult conversations are regularly interrupted, sleep is a thing of the past, and your time is generally not yours. During this trip I've conversed at length with adults about interesting topics. I've met new people who aren't scared away from me because I'm trying to manage a temper tantrum. I spent FOUR whole hours driving by myself, listening to my own music, stopping when I want, taking pictures of what I want and not having to answer to anyone. The knots in my shoulders seemingly loosened and a sensation that I can only imagine is relaxation came over me. Ideas seem to fall into my mind as I'm photographing the wildlife or sit and enjoy the spectacular scenery.
I have enjoyed myself more on a personal level in the past 3 days than I have in a very, very long time. It reminds me that my mind still works like an adult, and that there's no reason for me to not do this for myself every once and a while, especially if it allows me to be a better parent. I nearly forgot that I"m adult who uses words bigger than 'potty' and knows more than just the latest sippy cup technology or which diaper brand gives you the best bang for the buck. I can actually participate in adult conversation and
I challenge every Mom to find a way to get away for a day or 2, or maybe just 1 night and find some time alone to reconnect to yourself. It obviously can't be in Jackson Hole, WY all the time, but the location doesn't really matter. You may have to save up for it or bargain with your partner to watch the kids, but it's worth it. Nothing comes close to being more relaxing and freeing than enjoying time to yourself, and if you have kids there are few ways that can work without leaving the house.
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