My husband takes our sons on a trip without me every summer. They swim, fish, and stay up late, and I enjoy taking time for myself.
At first, my staying behind was a practical choice: our pet sitter was unavailable and boarding wasn't an option with two dogs, a cat, and a parrot.
That first year, I felt a mix of guilt and anxiety as they drove away. I'd pitched the idea as a chance for them to bond — father and sons, no " default parent" hovering — and I meant it. But once they actually left, I had a pit in my stomach. Had I made a terrible mistake?
It was my idea, but I wasn't ready
I was a little panicked that first year and didn't know how to fill my alone time. I started a to-do list that morphed into a massive, over-ambitious three-page document. I can't help but laugh at myself now — I'm a former Navy spouse who used to spend months alone at a time. But after a decade of parenting, I had forgotten what it was like to truly be alone in my own house.
When my family was getting ready for their first trip without me, I double-checked their packing lists, tucked snacks and notes into backpacks, and offered advice on what to bring. My husband — the Navy guy I trust completely and who's more than capable of organizing a weeklong trip — definitely didn't need my help. He still patiently indulged my anxiety attack as I tucked children's Motrin, Band-Aids, and antibiotic cream into his toiletries bag.
It's gotten better every year
After that first year, I gradually stopped feeling the need to double-check their packing or toss out last-minute reminders about sunscreen and underwear. My kids are teenagers now, and with the help of their father (not me!), they have the planning and packing down.
This year, I was content to watch from the sidelines as they loaded the car with all of the gear they'd need for a week away. The morning they left, I waved from the porch and headed back inside to a quiet house. I've learned to let go.
For them, this week is about swimming, fishing, eating junk food, and staying up late watching movies. It's exactly the kind of memory-making experience that doesn't require my involvement — and honestly, they probably benefit from my absence. They come home sunburned and tired, full of stories that don't include me. They've found a place that belongs to the three of them, and rather than being jealous, I love the memories — and confidence — they're building.
I've learned to take the time for myself
Meanwhile, I get a stretch of time that's entirely my own. In previous years, I've hosted girls' night on my deck or invited a long-distance friend to visit for a few days. This year, I was craving the alone time to focus on some big creative projects. I also binged some shows, read two novels, and reveled in the quiet (and a clean house).
As a night owl, I find it liberating not to have to sync up with anyone else's schedule. I eat when I'm hungry rather than at designated family meal times, go to bed as late as I want, and start my day whenever I'm ready. I feel like a teenager with the house to myself while my parents are out of town — only better, because I don't have to sneak anything.
After five years of trips, my to-do lists have gotten a little shorter (and focus more on fun), and I've started looking forward to this week almost as much as my family does. I can't wait to see what next year brings.
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While you can drive to all the locations listed in this guide, you can also wiggle into one of the many free street parking spots nearby and take the opportunity to explore Montrose by foot. The Mecom Fountain in the intersection of Main and Montrose. Karen Warren/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.: Start your day with tamales and thrift shopping Montrose is an ever-changing, living organism, with new restaurants and shops and bars cycling in and out constantly. But Brasil may outlive us all. The mainstay restaurant on Dunlavy Street and Westheimer Road offers a robust menu of breakfast classics, plus some more unique offerings like a morning grain bowl, as well as bean and braised greens tamales. If the weather is cooperating, eat outside on Brasil's vibrant green patio, and don't forget to order a coffee or tea to start your day off right. After breakfast, head east on Westheimer to window shop at one of the many chic thrift shops along the street. 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The Motherland — with steamed rice, curry, yaji-spiced vegetables and sweet plantains — is a warmly spiced, ultra-filling standout here. So's the Trad, with jollof-style jambalaya, halal chicken and more yaji-spiced veggies, and stewed plantains. (You can order the plantains as an appetizer on the side, and they're almost impossible to pass up.) Cap off your meal with one of the classic cocktails, or if it's still a little too early to dive into alcohol, check out the refreshers, like the Cape Town Cooler, with guava, lemon, grapefruit and sparkling water. Other ideas: If you like to sleep in and are feeling something more brunch-y, consider the cheeky (and Guy Fieri-approved) tiki bar The Toasted Coconut, directly south on Richmond and Mandell. The all-day menu offers both breakfast and dinner options, like the honey butter biscuit, with fried chicken, a black pepper biscuit, chili crisp, and cheese. 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The hotel offers three room types: smaller suites in a 1920s-style at The Mansion, modern aesthetics with a seating area at The Tower, and spacious apartment-sized suites at The Garden Bungalows. Eater Houston All your essential food and restaurant intel delivered to you Email (required) Sign Up By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Business Insider
4 days ago
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My husband takes our sons on a trip without me every summer. They swim, fish, and stay up late, and I enjoy taking time for myself.
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American Military News
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7,000+ military, security troops deployed to protect top Mexican vacation spots
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