Recipe for Girls Weekend Away

Lord knows I can’t cook worth anything but I can put together a recipe for a 5 star girls weekend that will leave you full of joy. Some of my dearest of dears are a road trip away while others are a mere drop by. Regardless, I find it of great importance to step away from our day to day to be present with one another.

Gathering is so so good for the soul! Sure we text, talk on the phone, follow on social media and video when we can but it doesn’t measure up to the face to face smiles. The dedicated time away is where we really share, learn and grow with one another.

It's also more economical than a couples/family trip as you're only paying for yourself and split across the group!

I get asked often about all my girls weekends (I have at least 6 a year) and since I just hosted one right here in Charlotte I find it’s perfect timing to share how I do it.

Tip: You can simply book a hotel/home right where you live and still get away!

Here’s my recipe for a weekend away with your besties:

PLAN 

Coming together with calendars in advance is key! We all have responsibilities but with commitment and delegation establishing dates & logistics (childcare) solidifies the event. We pick locations based on season, budget and rotation of cities amongst us.

Tip: We share each other’s travel points/benefits.

FRESH AIR

Whether it’s sitting on the beach, hiking a mountain or cruising on a boat being outside together is medicine for the soul.

ACTIVITY

We love to try new things.  We’ve participated in concerts, gym classes, historic tours, rope courses, spa packages, cooking, beading, candle making, and painting classes... the list goes on. Next month we’re getting really adventurous with a helicopter tour of Lake Tahoe! 

GAMES

I’ve shared some of the biggest laughs and heart felt stories over a good old-fashioned deck of cards or puzzle.

SNACKS & SPIRITS

I have a gal pal who loves making snack boards!

Everyone bringing their favorites to share makes for full tummies. 

It also makes being away more comfortable and homey. 

SIGHTS & SHOPPING

It’s always enjoyable to stroll, take in the local attractions and find a few treasures along the way.  I learn quite a bit about people seeing things they like on the shelves.

NIGHT OUT

Getting all gussied up for cheers and celebration of your friendships is some of the most fun! Getting ready together coiffing your hair and putting on make up in preparation is also the source of a lot of fun. 

And while the snazzy outfits are important, your kind and happy heart paired with listening ears will make you so stylish.  I'm not one to typically share, but in a trusted circle it's nice to lean on one another.

Wherever you go, whoever you're with, enjoy! 

Dress Beautifully on a Girls Weekend

XOXO Sarah-Louise

Mamma Monday: Time Out

Happy Monday Mammas! This past weekend was a time out for me.  My gal pals and I have been planning a weekend away at the beach for several weeks now. One of the gals just recently purchased a townhome on the coast and we were all eager to warm it with lots of cheers and fun.  I must say I'm proud of all 7 of us for aligning our calendars and coming together. We all went to college together so it was sentimental if you will, to be back to our glory days.

Not everyone there was a Mamma, only 3 of us, and it was one gal's first time away from her 10 month old. Regardless, we all NEED time outs.  A time to refresh, rest and give ourselves change from our weekly grind whatever that may be.

I realize that not everyone can just escape for an entire weekend nor can they herd other gals with them. But I do sincerely believe that time outs are necessary!

This is also where your tribe comes in.  Someone has to keep the littles alive in your absence.  It took Mr. and both of my sisters to care for Vivian Louise for 3 days (because her Daddy works weekends).  But they were all excited to do it.
I left a note of instructions and a stocked fridge of food.

Tip: They've got this! checking in discourages those taking care of your children and fully letting go is the point of your time out.

If you're one of those gals that never asks for help. Shame on you!!! And I'm confident you're one of the first to help others.  And don't keep score either, just because you helped/watched someone else's littles, doesn't mean she has to now watch yours to keep it even.  God gave us each other to lean on, so lean!

It was amazing having her back in my arms after 3 days

Where you go or what you do doesn't matter, just being away for just a bit is all you need to return happier than you left. And it's a guarantee you'll be missed and those reunited hugs and kisses are priceless!

Spent the morning splashing with my little mer-babe

My Swimsuit

It feels good to leave but it feels even better to come back!

Dress Beautifully While Taking a Time Out

XOXO Sarah-Louise