I've been back for over a week now but the memory is still fresh in my head just waiting to get out and on to paper (can we consider a blog post a paper of sorts?)  Anyway, the vacation was wonderful...and it rained the first day.  As you could imagine my husband and I could have cared less.  Our expectations were low to say the least.  I initially had a plan to get primped and ready for the trip but with things busy as usual my primping ended up consisting of a whirlwind run to Target for some spring dresses and bathing suit accessories.  I didn't even try them on in the store just bought whatever looked somewhat decent and did a quick wardrobe run at home later.  But let me tell you, sitting by a pool, wearing that new dress, a sun hat from a local mall near the hotel, and new sunglasses I felt like a celebrity.  And by the way there were actual young, beautiful girls in high end bikinis and sun dresses traipsing around - but they did nothing to shake my newfound vacation confidence.

What made me feel so good was that I was out of my routine.  I was able to spend time reading an actual book not just a magazine (yes that was a line stolen from the movie 'The Holiday' but it worked too well here to pass up).  I was able to indulge in simple pleasures such as eating a good meal and actually paying attention to what I was tasting.  I was able to sleep for as long as I needed or wanted.  I was able to not hurry.  Time actually took on a different meaning without a child's schedule to adhere to.  I was able to talk, focus on and enjoy just being with my husband.  We met new and interesting people.  We laughed.  We relaxed.  And this did not come without the occasional worry and reassuring phone calls or e-mails to make sure the kids were alright without us -  and they were and as it turns out so were we. 

I can't tell you enough how much I recommend carving out more time for yourself and your partner if you have one.  Even if it's not a vacation just a night off can help.  We came back better parents or at the very least more relaxed ones.  Now I'm trying to focus on how we can incorporate some of these invaluable experiences into our regular lives and remember how amazing it can feel to be connected, well rested and relaxed...aaahhh, until next time.