Leave the Guilt Behind: Plan Your Next Couples Trip

Getaway
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Last fall, my husband and I went on a two-day getaway together.

It was our first extended time away from our youngest child and the longest we’d been apart from our twins in two years.

In the week leading up to our trip, we found ourselves having multiple conversations about canceling it altogether. The thought of being away was daunting, and calling us nervous would be an understatement.

However, after we had returned from our trip, we realized the importance of planning these short getaways.

Here are some ways to make the most of your time.

Getaway Tips

Start Small and Plan Ahead

We knew jumping into a long trip would be overwhelming, so we started with a two-day getaway. It made things feel so much more manageable.

Planning ahead was key. I made sure the kids’ routines were covered, double-checked our childcare plans, and talked through everything with my husband until we both felt comfortable.

It helped to have everything squared away before we left, so we could actually relax once we got there.

Communicate Your Needs and Expectations

Before we left, my husband and I had a conversation about what we wanted out of the trip. For us, it was mostly about slowing down and reconnecting without distractions — no kids, no work, just us.

It sounds simple, but being intentional about our time made all the difference.

We ended up having some of the best conversations we’ve had in ages and really enjoyed the time together.

Prioritize Connection Over Perfection

At first, I wanted to plan every detail (I am a planner at heart), but I quickly realized that trying to create the “perfect” getaway was missing the point.

The best parts of the trip were the unplanned moments: lingering over breakfast, going for a walk with no particular destination, laughing over great conversations.

Letting go of the pressure to make everything perfect was honestly a relief.

Leave the Guilt Behind

I’ll admit, I felt guilty right up until we left and even after. I kept running through all the “what-ifs” in my head.

But once we were on the road, I started to relax.

And by the time we got back, I realized just how much I needed that break, not just as a mom, but as a wife.

Investing in our marriage felt good. And coming home refreshed made me a better mom, too.

Reflect and Plan for the Future

On our drive home, we talked about how nice it was to just be us again. We agreed that we need to do this more often, even if it’s just a night away or a date night closer to home.

Making these getaways a priority feels less like a luxury and more like something our relationship truly needs.

Taking time away together can be hard especially with young kids and busy schedules. But it’s so worth it. We came back feeling more connected and ready to tackle the chaos of life together.

If you’ve been putting off a getaway, this is your sign to make it happen.

Looking for getaway inspiration? Check out Best Getaways Near Fargo to Find a Scenic View!
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Ashlee Cournia
Ashlee is a dedicated wife, mother, and teacher with a passion for supporting others through infertility awareness. Raised on a farm in south central North Dakota, she learned the value of hard work, family, and faith. After earning her English Education degree at MSUM and starting her teaching career in 2014, she completed her Master's in Education in 2018. Ashlee and her husband, Jay, welcomed twins, Hannah and Leo, after a five-year infertility journey, followed by their daughter, Olivia, in 2023. They are now excitedly awaiting the arrival of another child, due in April 2025. Residing in Horace, ND, Ashlee teaches full-time at Kindred High School and part-time at the University of Mary, balancing her roles with part time receptionist work at Scheels. Passionate about sharing her infertility journey, she uses Instagram to connect and support others facing similar challenges. In her downtime, Ashlee enjoys baking, decorating, and family road trips, finding joy in both the challenges and blessings of working motherhood.

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