This time of year most of us are planning our summer vacations with our families. School is almost out for the year and we are focused on our summer adventures. Will we visit the beach or the mountains? Drive or fly? Will it be our extended family or just us? As all Moms know, vacations can be so much fun but rarely, it is a vacation for Mom. The planning, packing, cooking, and washing all fall on her shoulders. Not to mention her occasional job as physician when the inevitable illness crashes the party. When my children were under the age of 3, I really didn’t see the point. I was more stressed from being out of our routine then possibly enjoying the two hours of beach time we might attempt with three toddlers. I adore my family but I was usually in need of a vacation from my vacation.
What I have found is a great mixture of family and adult vacation makes me a better mommy and wife. My husband and I have always loved to travel. Before we had so many little ones, we were always looking for something fun to experience. I am blessed to have a husband who sends me away every other year on a girl’s trip and he has his male adventures as well. But if we are not intentional about planning, we find it has been a long stretch without a break.
I have had the joy of helping dozens of families plan their dream vacation so far this year. There is nothing like the excitement of a 5 year old experiencing her first Disney princess lunch. But I have also really enjoyed working with some special couples who are long overdue in creating a truly memorable husband and wife moment. Once families begin growing, we sometimes forget how important those times can be for our relationships and our own stress level. It doesn’t have to be a trip to the Caribbean, Italy or Costa Rica. Although, those are some fabulous options!!
You may be thinking that sounds great but it is not possible for us right now. You can be creative. If you are vacationing with family or friends this summer, maximize your time. Extend your time away by a couple of days. Most in-laws would love the opportunity for a night or two alone with the grandchildren. You can trade off with a friend or sister in law. You and your husband can sneak away for a night or two and have a mini vacation while on your family vacation. If that isn’t in the cards, stay at a hotel in Charlotte for one night. When my children were very small that was the most I was able to do mentally. I was close enough to be home in a moment’s notice if needed.
Our trips are not as extravagant anymore but they are still necessary. If my husband could have anything he wanted for Father’s Day, he would take a sweet card from his kids and a weekend away with Mom alone. That is not always convenient for me but I never regret the time away. It makes him feel he is still important to me and it is great for our marriage. In January, we took a short 3 night cruise and just got away. It was quick but we had a great time just being together. Don’t get me wrong, I would rather have it all. Take my kids to an amazing resort in Hawaii, share the experience as a family and a night or two away alone. One day that my work, but I want to enjoy where we are today too.
There are some great opportunities in this economic climate if you are flexible. If you try to go anywhere popular when everyone else is going, the deals are not as plentiful. Be flexible if you able and make the most of what you CAN do.
If you have any travel needs or questions please feel free to contact me. Our services are free to our clients and I would love to help you create the best vacation for your family.
Wendy Hershey
TNT Travel
704-340-3533
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Wendy.tnttravel@gmail.com
