I can’t recall the last time I had a full, uninterrupted conversation with my partner, Mark. With our kids being 4 and 6 years old, I’m pretty sure it was around 2011! My oldest has mastered the art of waiting for a pause in our conversation to chime in, but my youngest, well, let’s just say he’s a conversation destroyer. “Mom, mom, Mom, MOM!” is his battle cry, and it doesn’t matter what I’m in the middle of saying.
If you’ve never found yourself yelling, “OHMYGAWD, WHAT?!” then you probably don’t have small children. Trying to have a meaningful conversation while juggling kids is like walking a tightrope. If they’re not interrupting you every few seconds, they’re mentally cataloging your words for future use—often to embarrass you at the most inconvenient times. Yay, kids. insert sarcasm font
It’s not just my chats with Mark that I miss; it’s the entire vibe we had before parenthood took over. We don’t mean to neglect our relationship, but kids have a way of consuming every moment. Before you know it, years fly by, and you can forget how to be a couple amidst all the parenting chaos.
Now, don’t get me wrong—I adore my children. They light up my life in ways I never knew possible, but every so often, I crave a little distance. That distance? A weekend at Grandma’s while Mark and I indulge in some quality couple time. What’s more relaxing than jetting off to an exotic locale for a few days, sampling local cuisine and soaking in the sights? Unfortunately, my vacation days and bank account don’t always align.
What I can afford, though, is a couple of nights at a nearby hotel and a basket of breadsticks from Olive Garden. This is your guide to the ultimate low-cost escape. Seriously, stick with me.
Here’s the Plan
First, send the kids off to Grandma’s. Next, find a nearby area that offers some fun activities—maybe it’s an hour away, or just across town. Book a hotel room because that’s your ticket to a true getaway. Staying in your home feels more like a day off than a vacation, and you don’t want the temptation of laundry and chores lurking around. Leave responsibilities behind, at least for a couple of days! (You’ll have to deal with them again upon your return.)
Whether it’s a 24-hour retreat or a long weekend, dedicate this time to reconnecting with your partner. Read a book by the pool, catch a movie that isn’t animated, enjoy a fancy dinner, or, let’s be real, have all the intimate moments! For a few days, forget you have kids and just be a couple. Trust me; you’ll thank yourself later.
This concept works wonders because who doesn’t love a vacation? No cooking, no cleaning, just pure relaxation. While kids can complicate travel plans, taking them out of the equation simplifies everything. Genius, right? Grab your partner and go, or if you’re feeling adventurous, leave them at home for some solo relaxation time! Shoutout to my fellow introverts!
So, the next time Grandma volunteers to watch the kids, take her up on it. Book that hotel, pack a bag, and live your best life.
For more on family planning and related topics, check out this excellent resource for pregnancy and home insemination.
Summary
Staycations without kids provide a refreshing escape for couples who need time to reconnect. By leaving home and staying at a nearby hotel, parents can enjoy activities they love without the interruptions of daily life and children. It’s an affordable way to recharge and strengthen your relationship.