vacation – Mummy To Twins Plus One

The other weekend hubby and I went away for the weekend.

It was a lovely escape to the city for just the two of us.

No kids were coming!

Yes, you read that right, we finally got alone time.

Before I went away for this magical alone time (well not completely alone, I would be with hubby) I was telling another mum at the school about getting some time away for just us. She was very happy that we were finally getting away. She was as excited as I was.

This other mum then told me that in May that she is off all by herself to a retreat in Bali. Yes, she is going to a different country for a full week all by herself. This mum also has three kids and is desperate for a break also.

I was happy about our trip away for the weekend, but found myself rather envious of this mum’s trip. I wanted to do the same! Maybe one day???? (I was excited for my friend too, and thrilled she was getting some rest and relaxation)

In the news was an article about another mum that books herself into a hotel twice a year. She does this alone! Yes another person going away all by herself! I read this article before I heard about my mate’s trip to Bali.

The article from Essential Kids said that having a break by yourself makes this mum a better parent. I am sure time alone would help any busy parent.

I have caught myself drooling over holidays, trips away, having fantasies about sitting on the beach sipping my cocktail while the kids are entertained in a kids club.

I would just be content in having a holiday at home as long as the following happened; I could sleep in, I would be able to do my own projects and the house was quiet. I think to get my wish list travelling somewhere else might be necessary.

The weekend away with hubby was nice and relaxing. We had a lovely dinner out on Friday night, and finally eating at a new trendy restaurant. It was a nice change to not have to factor in if the food will be okay for kids before we book for dinner.

Not being on call for others was nice, no yelling, nobody saying mumma all the time, or yelling mummy at the top of their lungs. No fights to break up and no issues to deal with. Rather peaceful actually.

Once we got home the tension in my neck and jaw started to set in. The kids started arguing, I found out they hadn’t been very good on the day we came home and then they started harassing me again about everything and nothing.

It did feel like I hadn’t been away at all.

Maybe I need to go away for more than two nights?

I think I need to look into a Bali retreat like my other friend has done. Would a week somewhere relaxing make me feel better?

Would coming home to energetic kids bring all the tension back instantly? I seriously need to look at a week long retreat somewhere…..send in ideas people!

I know the kids were excited to see me and hubby, and this is a nice thing. Cuddles, kisses and more were greatly appreciated. The only thing that I can live without is the chaos.

Do you have time out on your own? If so has it helped you to have more energy and feel better?

Being a full time mum and carer to three kids is exhausting. Any other job you get a holiday, however being a parent there is no sick leave, holidays or breaks.

Down time is needed, but for some a night out or weekend away might the only break they get.

I have managed to be away for a few nights for a blogging conference, basically just a weekend away and then back to mummy duties.

Are you able to manage time away just for you?

How long have you been away for? How did the kids cope without you, were they happy when you were home?

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Travel Tips to Keep the Whole Family Healthy on Vacation

If your family is anything like mine, taking vacations with kids is always an adventure. While it can be lots of fun, there are always unexpected events and problems. One of the biggest challenges is to keep everyone healthy. I’ve found that there are certain practices that can keep the whole family healthier and happier when we’re traveling together.

Tip 1: If you are going to a theme park, it’s very important that the kids are well rested. That’s why I am rather fussy about where we stay. It’s not always a good idea to choose the cheapest motel or hotel in the area. Some of these places are not really family friendly. They may be noisy at night, for example. So when you are searching through a prime location amongst many Orlando and Walt Disney World hotels, I always look for places that have quiet hours policy so I know that the kids will be able to get a good night’s sleep. This make them much better company as we take on the theme parks and other adventures.

Tip 2: Many restaurants in America tend to serve very large portions. This is not the healthiest way to eat, and it can make everyone feel tired and sluggish. Additionally, it’s not very good if you’re trying to stick to a diet! That’s why I always ask to take home leftovers at the end of dinner! That way I don’t overeat and I can always refrigerate the meal back at the hotel and have a nice lunch for the next day and save a little money also!

Tip 3: Always prepare a hygiene kit before you leave for your trip. This should include hand sanitizers, sanitary wipes and face masks. You can use these items when soap and water is not available for washing. Face-masks are useful if the air is polluted or there are sick people nearby. This isn’t hard to put together, and it can help to keep the whole family healthier.

Tip 4: When traveling with a baby or very young child, it’s best to give yourself enough room. If possible, find a hotel room that has an extra room for the baby. This will make it easier for the baby to sleep and will give the rest of the family some freedom to make a little noise without waking the little one.

Tip 5: Young children are especially prone to ear pain when flying. The tubes in their ears are more sensitive to changes in air pressure. That’s why you should bring along some items to prevent or treat ear problems. Gum or hard candy are useful for preventing ear discomfort. This works for adults as well, but it’s even more important for kids. You should also bring ear-drops and children’s aspirin in case they do experience any pain.

These are some of the hints and tricks that I use when traveling with kids. I have found that making such preparations makes a big difference. By keeping everyone healthy, safe and well rested we all have a better time on our vacation.

Kendra Thornton – Guest Blogger

Kendra is a Travel advocate, TV spokesperson, PR businesswoman, proud wife and mama of 3 wonderful kids.

Find out more about Kendra on her website