On Friday, my girlfriends and I will be making our annual escape to Martha's Vineyard. Armed with sunscreen, chick lit and as many trashy magazines as I can stuff in my beach bag, I'll hop the ferry with Maura and Tina and begin the relaxation process. We'll met Molly on the Island and you can bet there will be plenty of laughs, drinks and memories made.
It was last year, on this same weekend getaway, that the idea of the Manic Mommies Escape first started percolating in my mind. After a fun-filled day on the beach, where I was actually allowed to close my eyes and catch a nap, we bumped into some old friends. Husband, wife and 1-year-old baby were walking up the sidewalk in front of our hotel. We all exchanged hugs and quick words about what we've all been up to when the mom in the group pulled me aside and said "Where are your kids? Are you gals here alone?"
"Yes! It's our annual getaway," I explained, with a smile that must have reached from ear to ear.
The mom, obviously tired from a so-called vacation with her baby, whispered "I wish I was with you!"
That got me thinking about how rare and special it is for moms to be able to getaway for a while. Not for a business trip. Not for a family vacation. Not to visit the in-laws. But a real getaway that involves little more than connecting with old friends, sleeping in, and eating food someone else has prepared for you.
When was the last time you took a weekend for yourself?
Can you name a recent time when you could take a nap, start and finish a book, get a pedicure, a massage, go shopping and actually try things on? Or go for a run, take a yoga class, sit and have a cup of coffee and stare off into space if that's all you wanted to do. When did you last see a chick flick, in the middle of the day? Visit a gallery or shop a local artisan's faire?
When was the last time you gave yourself permission to clear your head and recharge your batteries?
If your answer is "never" or "can't remember," then it is time for you to sign up for the Manic Mommies Escape!
The Escape is an opportunity for you and your girlfriend(s) to do all of the above. Attend what you want and leave what you don't. Meet new people or spend quality time with your best friend. Heck, spend the entire time in the spa if you want (although you will miss some very cool speakers if you do...).
The important thing is to allow yourself the time to getaway. Mom, you deserve it!
