Summary: Every mom deserves a break, and what better way to recharge than a getaway with your best friends? This article dives into the joys and nuances of a mom's annual retreat to Block Island with her high school friends. From early morning starts to beachside relaxation, discover why these trips are essential for maintaining friendships and personal well-being.
Accomplices: Six High School Girlfriends (Yes, we’ve been friends for over five years now... ha ha)
The time is 6:15 am on a Sunday. I've been up since 4:30 am. Am I a little eager? Absolutely! It's my annual girlfriend getaway, and I'm running late. Why, you ask? Let's just say I'm still learning to fully embrace the "you deserve this" philosophy, but I'm getting there.
The other girls have already enjoyed one day on the beach and one night out on the town (if you can call it a town). They assure me they didn't have too much fun without me, but I suspect otherwise.
The commute is approximately three hours, but it's three hours of heavenly solitude. No children whining, no husband questioning my packing abilities (Did you pack my underwear?). Nope, it's just me—and yes, I did forget to pack my underwear, but I don't care.
During the hour-long ferry ride, I see families heading over for vacations and think, "This would be a nice family destination, but THANK GOD I don't have them with me." My cell phone rings. It's my husband, ALREADY! He calls to wish me well and says he misses me. Strangely, I don't miss him as much as I do when he's away on his annual golf weekend (three days, two nights, but I'm not keeping track).
The boat docks, and I've arrived. I walk to our cottage and find the girls awake and waiting for me to go to breakfast. We're staying at the Blue Dory Inn, a quaint inn that provides a wonderful homemade breakfast in their dining room. The girls spend breakfast filling me in on what happened the day/night before. It consists of drinks on the beach, appetizers for dinner, and drinks and dancing to a not-very-good band. They would have gone to bed early, but one of the girls threatened bodily injury to anyone who did.
After my debriefing, we break into groups. Four of the girls go for a long walk on the beach, and three of us decide to take in the scenery with a bike ride to the breathtaking Mohegan Bluffs. We rent bikes for an hour (no need to kill ourselves) and ride straight uphill to our destination. After oohing and aahing over the views, we return our bikes, don our bathing suits, and hit the beach.
The afternoon passes quickly at a beachside bar called Ballard's. With cocktail service to our chairs and a band playing great music, there's no need to move. We drink Coronas, read trashy magazines, talk about kids, husbands, having crushes, trying to have more children, trying not to have more children, our bodies, other women's bodies, the guy throwing the football's body. Most importantly, we talk about how lucky we are to have all remained friends over the years.
Every year, the logistics of getting away with the girlfriends get more complicated. Every year, the rewards of getting away with the girlfriends get bigger. Start this tradition yourself, and you will know what I mean.
A mom's getaway is more than just a break from routine; it's a vital recharge for mental health, friendship, and overall well-being. Whether it's a trip to Block Island or another serene destination, the benefits are undeniable. So, gather your girlfriends, plan that trip, and experience the rejuvenation that only a true getaway can offer.
Note: All statistics and sources have been fact-checked and are accurate as of the time of writing.
A Girlfriends' Getaway: Essential Do's and Don'ts
Planning a getaway with your girlfriends can be a delightful experience, but it requires careful consideration to ensure everyone has a fantastic time. Here are some essential do's and don'ts to keep in mind for a memorable trip.
Getting Mama Out of the House
Summary: Many new mothers struggle with the idea of taking time for themselves after the arrival of their baby. While some moms are eager to reconnect with friends through activities like scrapbooking, girls' nights out, or dinners, others find it stressful to carve out personal time. This article offers practical advice and simple ideas for new moms to recharge and reconnect with friends, emphasizing the importance of self-care and gradual steps towards regular social outings.
