This blog was written by my co-editor Cheryl Clemens:

Hubby and I recently returned from five child-free days in Las Vegas with three other couples.

I blogged a few weeks ago about how much I was looking forward to this trip, our first extended one alone in years. I looked forward to reconnecting with my husband, having fun with our friends and exploring a new city.

What I didn’t expect was the ease with which I relaxed and truly had a good time. It didn’t take long to realize this was the first trip since I became a mother that was truly a vacation.

* I wasn’t the activity director for the group.
* I wasn’t constantly concerned that everyone was having a good time.
* I wasn’t cooking or cleaning.

I really just relaxed, had fun and enjoyed myself. One day we woke up, ate breakfast (with Bloody Mary’s, of course), went back to the hotel and slept til 1. One night we were having so much fun we didn’t get around to eating dinner until 11 p.m. (2 a.m. our time). We played in the casinos, saw shows and just walked the streets and took it all in.

It made me re-think our family vacations.

Now that the kids are older, it’s not necessary for me to plan everything. They can research and schedule just as well as I can. And no amount of my worrying is going to ensure that someone has a good time. If they do, great. If not, maybe they’ll enjoy the next activity. And I’ll never again take down time for granted on a vacation.

Most importantly, I’ve realized there doesn’t need to be something planned for every minute. Spending part of each day relaxing is a good thing. It clears your mind. And when you’ve had enough, you’re even more ready to go out and try something new and different.

OK, so much for the general overview. Tomorrow I’ll talk romance.