It was a month ago that Michael and I did something CRAZY! We took a few days and left the kids behind (with my amazing sister in law) and escaped to Santa Barbara. This was a big deal, we have never left the kids to have our own time away before. Not only was it much needed to reconnect and be together after a crazy few months, but it was also an excellent exercise for the children to know that we can go away, that we will come back, and more importantly that they are safe to trust someone other than us. They had a great bonding experience, and honestly, I question how much they missed us. 
Our choice for our great escape was the Ritz Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara! Not only is it beautiful, but it is also not too far away but still not too close either. It was the perfect staycation destination. It was everything and more than we could have dreamed of for our time away. It was relaxing, and honestly, we felt like we were in another world. It was so calm, serene, and we felt at absolute peace. We took walks along the beach, listened to the waves, ate amazing meals, watched the rain (that was my favorite) and had the most magical dinner at Angel Oak. Honestly, I don’t think I have ever had a meal that good. It blew me out of the water! The staff was incredible at both Angel Oak and Bacara, so incredibly warm, accommodating, and just lovely. It was just what we needed for some adult time and yes we slept in, and took a nap because hey we could. 
I can’t encourage you enough to take the time to focus on your relationship with your spouse. Michael and I are great at communicating, and we have date nights once a week, but there is something to be said for getting out of the house and out of your environment and focusing solely on each other. Talk, Connect, and be present. It was amazing. So much so that when presented with a work trip later in the month we both jumped on the opportunity to escape to NYC together for another little trip. We have been together for almost 18 years, and we are still growing, so connecting and checking in is not just something you should do, it is something we love to do. Michael and I are in it for life, and that means that the best way to care for our family is also to make sure we take the time to care for each other. I have to say that after our time away we felt like it was our honeymoon and my heart was swelling with love for the man I chose to marry ten years ago.
How cute was this set up waiting for us in our room? We brought the picture Kenzie had drawn for us. A heart for each of us in the family! Just the sweetest.
We loved getting caught in the storm, to open the doors and listen to the rain. We never get rain so being able to just take a moment and appreciate nature was quite a treat. 
So happy and refreshed!
So do yourself a favor, find a fantastic place and have a staycation it doesn’t even have to be for that long! Just make an effort, I promise you won’t be sorry.
What’s your favorite piece of advice for a happy marriage? What do you do to keep the spark alive?
