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10 Reasons You Should Travel ... Without the Family

By Joyce Shulman May 10, 2016
I have a confession to make. Every time I leave for a trip without my kids, I try to cancel at least a half dozen times during the days before I leave. Will they be okay? Will they need me? Am I being selfish? Will I die in a fiery plane crash and leave them forever (yes, I think about that). 

Usually I decide that the anxiety of the trip is not worth it and I vow never to travel alone again -- or at least not until my kids leave for college.

Once I’m away, something always seems to happen. The constant hum of obligations and scheduling and wondering if this one has her sneakers for gym and that one has his cleats for track begins to recede. Little by little that noise is replaced, first by quiet and then by my own thoughts. And from that quiet springs ideas and hope and, ultimately, renewed energy. And by the time I return home -- a better mother, wife and a better me -- I vow to travel again one day, by myself.

On the fence? Here are my top ten reasons a mama bear should sometimes travel without her cubs.
  1. Because you will be able to eat what you want, when you want.
  2. Because only when the hum of obligations quiets can you hear your own thoughts.
  3. Because of the luxury of a bed to yourself, in which you can sleep as long as you wish.
  4. Because there is value in teaching your kids that mommy leaves and mommy comes back. Remember, there might be a day when you have to leave for a few days (think family emergency). 
  5. Because bubble bath.
  6. Because they will be fine with dad, grandma or Auntie Sue. Nope, everything won’t be exactly the way it would be if you were home. But it will be fine.
  7. Because you don’t have to go any place fancy (though a fabulous spa would be, well, fabulous). You just have to go someplace that will feed your spirit.
  8. Because some days you have to wake up to see something different so that you can wake up and really see that which is familiar.
  9. Because it’s fun. And fun is good.
  10. Because you deserve it.