I recently spent the weekend in Newport, Rhode Island with my good friend, Elena—a standing trip for the past seven years. We love our annual girl's trip because it affords us an escape from the everyday; the ability to refresh and renew our spirits as woman who work hard (me in the office and her at home); the chance to reconnect as friends; and because we value many of the same things in life.  So, isn't it ironic that our great escape included nonstop talk of those we were escaping from?

As we lay on the beach, one after another, we marveled at our children.  Elena (the mother of three) and I (the mother of two) joyfully shared stories and quips about the five amazing kids we left at home with their [equally amazing] Dads.  The whining protests, sibling rivalry and all-around chaos of family life washed out to sea with every crashing wave.  The little rascals of yesterday were suddenly the angels of today—for the life of me, I couldn't remember a single unhappy moment.

I guess that's why we all need breaks; it gives us the opportunity to count our blessings and recharge our souls. I always return to my life a better person after being in Newport with Elena (for whom I also consider a blessing), even if 10-minutes in I'm dreaming of next year's getaway.  Ironic isn't it?

[This is a photo of Ty and Wil showing off their souvenirs from Mommy's trip.]