Until this past weekend, it had been four months since Todd and I had gotten away for an overnight retreat. It had been at least two months since we’d even been on a date. In fact, we tend to wait so long between date nights that I get uncomfortable and sad leaving the boys to do anything. I know in my head that’s not right, but I can’t help how my heart feels. As important as it is to nourish our relationships with our spouses, my husband and I often put it last on our to-do lists.
We’ve gotten superb at the family routine. He has his tasks, I have mine and badabing badaboom, the days are achieved, the kiddos are snuggled in their beds, and we begin preparing for the next day. Though I love spontaneity and traveling, we’re all creatures of habit, and I think all parents can admit that children behave much better when their little schedules are not jostled. Sometimes it’s just easier and more comfortable to stay at home.
For Todd’s birthday which occurred in April, my parents got us a hotel room in Gatliburg, TN. It’s close enough to where we don’t spend our entire time driving but far enough to where we feel like we’re getting away. As we were on our very fun 24 hour getaway this past weekend, I thought of six reasons every couple should make an effort to take a break from the daily grind.
1. You and your spouse can speak an entire paragraph without spelling out words.
2. The car ride is eerily quiet yet very relaxing.
3. You have extended conversations with one another. Who cares if half of them are about the kids?
4. Fine dining can be part of the night’s agenda.
5. Your coffee can be enjoyed without being reheated four times. Am I the only mom that does this daily?
6. You miss your kids like crazy and can’t wait to get back and see their little faces.
It’s really a win-win for everyone. So if it’s been a while, find some time to get away and reconnect, have some fun, and ultimately, benefit every member of the family, even the little bambinos who were home being spoiled by the grandparents.
[…] haven’t had an overnight date in a year, so it felt rather strange not to have one or both of our boys attached to us. Though we […]