Let’s be real: “I could really use a vacation” is something I’ve heard from countless moms. And honestly, who can blame us? Whether we’re working moms or stay-at-home superstars, we all need a breather now and then—a mental getaway from the chaos of our daily lives. And what better way to recharge than with a girls’ weekend escape?
When I first floated the idea to my husband, he was all in. “Sounds great! You deserve it. Go have fun with your girlfriends.” With a rush of excitement, I started drafting an email to my friends, planning a weekend filled with spa treatments, lounging by the pool, and plenty of wine.
But then came the disappointing replies.
- “I’d love to, but I’ve never left my son overnight. I just can’t do it.”
- “I really want to, but I don’t want to be away from my kids.”
- “Being away for a whole weekend might be too much for me. How about just dinner?”
- “Oh, I could never leave my kids for a weekend. Sorry!”
Suddenly, my dream of a fun-filled getaway with my best buddies vanished, and I found myself questioning my own maternal instincts. Guilt crept in: Is it wrong that I would welcome a two-day break? Shouldn’t I want to be with my kids all the time? Am I less of a mom because I’m seeking a little me-time?
Let me be clear: I’m not looking for a monthly escape. But once a year? Absolutely! I never expected my biggest hurdle to be finding friends who would join me on this adventure. Sure, I could think of reasons why moms might hesitate—time, money, or childcare—but I actually had all those bases covered: a long weekend off work, some savings stashed away, and a supportive husband ready to step in.
One of my friends candidly shared, “I just don’t know any other moms who would feel comfortable leaving their kids for a weekend.” Ouch. Talk about feeling like a pariah among my mom circle. The pressure to be the perfect parent can be stifling.
But here’s the thing: just because my parenting style is different doesn’t make me a bad mother. It simply means what works for one person may not work for another. It’s all too easy to judge each other on various parenting topics, but labeling moms as overprotective or neglectful only adds to the guilt that many already feel.
I can’t help but cringe when someone says, “Wow, I can’t believe you’re okay with being away from your kids!” And I’m sure other moms wince when they hear, “You’re missing out by not leaving your kids behind.” We need to remember that love comes in many forms. What’s best for one family isn’t the same for another. For some, being with their kids 24/7 is what makes them happy; for others, a little space and some self-care is essential.
So, back to my original dilemma: how do I plan a getaway when most of my friends are hesitant? Anyone up for a girls’ weekend?
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In summary, taking a break doesn’t mean you love your kids any less. It’s about finding balance and what works for you as a parent. So here’s to hoping for a little getaway, even if it means being the odd mom out!