On parents-only vacations
Top of Mind 3.1.24
COOKING Roasted Cauliflower with Creamy Pesto Pasta
LISTENING The 51% Rule on The Mel Robbins Podcast recommended by @jeanelleteves
READING Scandalized recommended by @cameronoaksrogers
BUYING My favorite concealer just got upgraded
REFLECTING Our week getaway in Cabo
Currently…
I've just returned from what I like to call a "week of slow" - a parents-only getaway. Imagine waking up to a watercolor sunrise, the gentle sound of waves, and your only plan is to decide which book to read or cocktail to sip next. Sounds dreamy, right? Well, it was a dream turned reality, but let me tell you, it wasn’t without its share of mom guilt, middle of the night anxiety and logistics to get there.
I was chatting with a mom at the playground the week before we left, and she said something that stuck with me. She envied my trip but couldn’t fathom leaving her two toddlers even for a couple of nights, worried something terrible may happen. This got me thinking.
I stand firm by the belief that taking time away from the kids is necessary; and one of the best gifts you can give them and yourself. It's not about what you're missing out on but what you stand to gain.
The concept of a getaway without kids might sound like an impossibility, and that’s understandable. I admit, we had been slowly convincing the grandparents to take the kids for almost a year.
Now, I get it. Not everyone has grandparents on standby for a week-long babysitting marathon. But, don't let that stop you. Whether it's leaning on your community for a weekend swap, planning a solo retreat, or even a quick girls getaway, it's about carving out that space for yourself.
The hardest part is obviously the logistics. Here’s how we made it work:
Daily childcare: Our au pair still worked. This gave our parents a necessary break during the day.
A stocked fridge: Grocery delivery with milk, kids favorite foods and snacks.
Pre-trip prep call: We shared the daily schedule, things to watch-out for, and common scenarios.
Packed the comforts of home: Loveys, sound machines, blankies, blackout curtains, etc.
Morning check-ins: We recorded “good morning” videos, and in turn Caden wanted to record his own for us.
It's about prioritizing figuring out how to make it work, recognizing its worth not just for you but for your relationship and your family. This break allowed us to rediscover each other as partners, not just co-parents, and find happiness doing things we enjoyed pre-kids.
Returning home, I feel like a new person. More patient, more present, and, dare I say, a bit more fun? It’s about stepping back to leap forward, embracing a better version of yourself for everyone’s sake. You control your own happiness. And investing in that doesn’t make you selfish; it makes you the best version for your family.
So if you’re teetering on the edge of decision, let this be your nudge. Plan that trip.
All The Things
Getting ready for spring break? Here’s what I’m adding to my cart. Shop the full edit.
2 Piece Set stylish airport outfit with pockets
Tinted sunscreen a must for vacation mornings with kids
One Piece Swimsuit purchased, shared by @ashleykane and had to have
Brown Midi I’m a sucker for anything chocolate brown
Black & White Maxi so chic
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Thanks for the continued support on this journey,
Barbara Mighdoll