A Wellness Getaway

"Do we need to get away for awhile?" was what came out of my husband's mouth while our two children (ages 7 and 10) bounced across the family room furniture playing a game that melded the traditional "tag" with "don't step on the hot lava".

As much as a weekend stay with him at a Hampton Inn somewhere quiet and warm appealed to my every being, I knew it just wasn't in the cards for us.  Living off of one income with one kid in hockey and another in choir tends to make you think about what is truly important in life...and I feel grateful for the challenge to live more simply.

"Hon, you and I both know that taking a plane someplace warm probably isn't the best choice of spending our money right now," I replied.

But then he responded with something amazing - something profound.

"I didn't mean jet ourselves to a remote beach, dear...  ​​

How about the two of us head out for a day hike?"

Now we all know how Minnesota winters can be so cruel with their whipped winds and frigid temperatures, but I've grown into my understanding of what smart layering means.  This suggestion was more than enough to boost my spirits, and I happily accepted his invitation to "get away".

That hiking day turned out to be one of the best vacations I've ever been on with my husband of 13 years.  We walked, we talked, and we soaked in the beauty of winter's gifts to nature.  We relished in the silence and stillness of the woods, and heightened our senses to be more aware of the sights, sounds, and smells around us.  It was a perfect escape to rediscover my peace and my partner all in one day.

And I'll tell you a little secret...by the end of it, we were ready to return to our littles and join them in a crazy game of ball tag - IN. THE. HOUSE.

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