Escape Gratitude by Angie Ledbetter

Today I'm far away from home and I feel as if I've grown wings, or more accurately, unfurled the shriveled dried up ones I've had pinned beneath my shoulder blades for too long.

With the kids solidly on their own two feet, or at least with their own means of transportation and a decent amount of reliable good sense, Mom has flown the coop.

I am grateful for this escape from home and all-the-stuff-I-have-to-do-each-day. To enjoy time away from the world and clocks with a friend is one of life's greatest pleasures. And I intend to savor every moment of my vacation without guilt and worry. In that way, I can pay proper homage to the gift of this time. I sincerely hope you are able to shake out your feathers and do the same sometime in the near future.

Daycations by Angie Ledbetter

Sometimes it's just not possible to leave home for a vacation, a dose of fresh perspective or battery-charging. When that happens, it's time for an at home daycation. The best thing about these surrogate escapes is they are free and easy to take. No gas or reservations needed. Here's how:

1.) Unplug all electronic and cellular devices as if you are disconnected from everything/everyone and in Tahiti or Bora Bora.

2.) Sleep in. (Stay up late the night before if that'll help you rise at a later hour the next day.)

3.) Have a leisurely brunch when you arise. Take a tray outside if that's pleasing, read a book while you eat, or munch in front of the TV.

4.) Take a long bubble bath. Snooze in the tub if possible.

5.) Watch a good movie on DVD or take yourself to the movie.

6.) Do NOT do any of your regularly scheduled chores!

7.) Play mindless games on your computer.

8.) Late lunch or early dinner with a friend.

9.) Complete your daycation with whatever your heart desires and you do not get enough of regularly: swimming, walking, lounging, napping, reading, etc.

10.) Before bedtime, put your next daycation date on your calendar!

I love and appreciate these stay-at-home "trips," and have one scheduled again in about a month. Hope you can plan one for yourself too.