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Blog
Wednesday, May 07, 2008 For this Mother’s Day, some tips on how to beat the “mom guilt” We moms know the dirty little secret of family vacations: They’re no vacation for us, especially when young kids are part of the equation. In fact, moms whisper around the pool, their eyes trained on their toddlers, they should have saved the money and stayed home. However old the kids, on vacation, we still have to mediate squabbles, plan activities, navigate unfamiliar turf, keep kids safe, find missing sneakers and new batteries and treat minor illnesses and injuries—all that and scout out a washing machine, too. (Whenever possible, I go for a condo with a washer or a wash-and-fold place.) Even if grandparents are along (as they are increasingly these days), that’s no guarantee moms will get a break, if the grandparents want to play golf, sightsee or go out to dinner rather than watch the kids the entire time. (If you’re planning a trip with the in-laws, discuss beforehand exactly how much they’re willing to baby-sit!) Most important, don’t feel guilty about wanting some time for yourself. Pick a place with a spa! Hear that dads and kids? Instead of flowers this Mother’s Day, give mom an IOU redeemable on your next vacation. Let the kids (and dad) be in charge of a couple of meals. Call ahead to where you’re staying and ask about baby sitters or ask friends with kids who live in that locale. (The resort’s children’s program can often prove a good resource.) You also don’t want to make beds and clean bathrooms on vacation. That’s why if you opt for a vacation cottage or a condo (opt for maid service, even if it costs a little more. I always do. I also become the Takeout Queen, my kids joke. It’s no fun and too expensive to drag everyone out for every meal, especially when they’re pooped from a day at the beach or sightseeing. But there’s no reason for you to cook on vacation either—unless, of course, you want to. (We’ve had some memorable feasts, like the fresh fish the kids caught in Minnesota and the lobsters on Cape Cod.) Whatever you’re doing, it helps to have an extra set of hands, especially if you’re a single parent. There’s another plus to joining forces with another family: You’ll cut costs—and have a little extra cash to pamper yourself. Ready for that massage?
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