Me time!

I've said this before and I'll say it again...and again and again. I think it's so important for moms to make time for themselves. I am so lucky to have an amazing husband and family to love and care for Santi when I need some girl time.

I recently spent 3 nights in Alexandria, VA visiting my bestie Lindsay and her sweet family. I consider these trips "research," because her daughter Eva is only 8 months older than Santi. It's fascinating to see all the things Eva is doing and saying. It certainly helps prepare me for Santi's next phases.

We packed a lot of adventures into my short visit: Air & Space museum, American History museum, sea glass hunting, wine tasting and of course hours of girl talk. There is nothing that can soothe the soul like a first class flight, wine tasting, girl talk and a bed to yourself. Hah! Did I just type that?! But it's true! A little "me time" goes a long way.

Washington DC

I just returned from a mini vacation up to Washington DC to visit the Littles! We had such a great time seeing the sights. Santi stayed home with Abe, while I got a few days to recharge and get inspired by Lindsay and Eva.

Eva is a year and a half now, I can't believe it! She is so smart, independent and well spoken, sweet and fun to be around. She loves reading books with Lindsay, eating oatmeal and giving kisses to her frog, Ribbet. Watching Lindsay mother her is a huge inspiration and motivator for me. They are my model of what a parent toddler relationship can be. And it makes me excited for what's right around the corner for Santi.

Guilt Trip

Why is it, that as a mom, you can't do anything for yourself without feeling guilty?

While we were in EP, I needed some "me" time. A short get-a-way. I called my BFF (of 20+ years!) Lindsay in Kansas City and she said, come on over! She even offered her pack n' play and old car seat so Santi could come. But this trip was just for me. Abe is the best dad in the world and I knew he could handle a couple nights on his own. Plus, his parents are so helpful and always just a phone call away.

So I packed up my pump and set off to KC. Nothing makes me feel more like myself than traveling. I love everything about it. Naturally, I missed my loves like crazy, but I wasn't worried, not for one second. And honestly, I didn't even feel guilty about leaving. What's wrong with me? I'm suppose to feel guilty for leaving my son. But I didn't and I still don't.

As a mother, (especially heart moms!) it is so important to take time for yourself...without feeling guilty about it. Workout, get a massage, meet a friend for dinner, take a short trip! The better you feel, the better you make everyone around you feel. Everyone wins. Happy mama, happy daddy, happy bebe! I came back after my 48 hours away feeling recharged and more like my formerly independent self!

Yes! That is a ^MIMOSA^

I had an amazing time with the Littles. Their sweet Eva is 16 months and so, SO bright. Her vocabulary and comprehension just blew me away. Spending time with her gave me a beautiful glimpse of what's ahead for Santi and I.