Hey Friend
How long has it been since you did something for yourself? And I don't just mean enjoying the 5 seconds of peace as you close the car door and walk around to the driver's side. Like something BIG?!
I went to Bali. I went on a girl's trip for my best mate's 40th and it was the best decision I could have made. Life-changing. Only a week before I left, I told my husband I felt I shouldn't be going. I felt like I was abandoning my kids (they were a little sick at the time), we couldn't afford it and it felt too "Worldly" of me.
I hadn't had more than 3 nights away from the kids in 9 years! Why did I think I was doing something wrong? (by the way, my husband's response was "You need to go, you need this") Do you feel guilty doing things for yourself? It's something that's been ingrained into us over generations. A good mum would never go on holidays without her family, but a father can. That's been our situation. And not consciously, it's just easier for Dad to go away. He doesn't do the daily tasks of making school lunches, walking to school, reading the school newsletters to keep up with Mother's day stalls, cross country, swimming carnivals, extracurricular activities, excursions and so on!
When I reflect on this trip, describing its transformative impact on me is challenging, yet I know it deeply rejuvenated my spirit. I feel like it saved me. I was not in a good way. Can you relate? Surrounded by supportive women and immersed in the beauty of a different culture, I found a part of myself I had neglected. I'm sharing this story in hopes it might inspire you to carve out significant time for yourself. No matter where we are in our journey of motherhood, finding even a small escape can bring tremendous renewal. Last year, I spent just one night in a hotel with a friend, and it was incredibly refreshing.
What is it that you've been longing to do? It doesn't have to be a solo adventure; it could be something fun with the family, like a night of camping, a mini-retreat, or attending gym classes while the kids are in the creche. Whatever your dream, there's always a way to make it happen. Just like my seemingly impossible trip to Bali turned into a reality. Dream big and take that step—it’s worth every effort. I promise.
P.S YES I went to a waterpark without kids! and it was AWESOME! I couldn't keep the smile off my face cruising around on the back of scooters, going to the gym each morning with a sauna and ice bath. Hopefully, these pics inspire you to dream something for yourself and make it a reality.
Lots of laughing until we couldn't breath! So good for the soul. I hadn't laughed like that in years.
