Thursday, October 30, 2008

Mommy Vacations

One of the things I learned in my parenting class is that it's ok, nay necessary, for a Mom to take a vacation. Hurray!! Of course the definition of "vacation" in this case is quite a stretch by the standards of most. Our sage instructor did point out right away that there would be no three week vacations to Hawaii. No, none of that while one has small children at home. Oh. Drat!

So what does qualify as a Mommy Vacation? Here are some examples:

1) Taking a shower. (No kidding!!! I know plenty of women who prior to becoming mothers had been meticulously hygienic, but taking a shower is one of those things you just don't always have time for as a mom. So, when you do get one it can feel like a real treat and you really learn to enjoy it.)
2) Taking a walk. (ANY walk - not even a long one!)
3) The ultimate indulgence??? A night out with your spouse!!

How can these three things possibly qualify as a vacation? According to Merriam-Webster the definition of the word, "vacation" is:

1 a respite or a time of respite from something:intermission
2 a scheduled period during which activity (as of a court or school) is suspended, a period of exemption from work granted to an employee
3 a period spent away from home or business in travel or recreation

Although prior to being a mom my definition of "vacation" would have always trended heavily towards #3, it is now clear that #1 is the only real definition of "vacation" for Mommies and Daddies. So, Mommies and Daddies, enjoy your "vacations" whatever form they may take and whenever you manage to get them!

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well put!

Hello-
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for Me- providing financial and emotional support to have families through adoption and medical intervention.
I am reaching out to try and spread the word.
Please visit my blog
http://parenthoodforme.blogspot.com

Take the poll and pass the link on!
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Erica Schlaefer

Judy said...

a mommy vacation sounds so nice... hope to see you again soon.