For years Christopher and I have headed “Up North” for a few days away for our anniversary. If you saw the reel I did with pictures of us, you will notice a lot of them have Lake Superior in the background! Since we have not found a preferred replacement location, we decided to have a staycation and enjoy some time alone in the comfort of our own home. Granted our home does have a pretty great view! We sent our remaining teenager down to the farm with his big brother and we had 4 nights alone for the first time since we started having kids almost 24 years ago.

Time alone to connect while still being able to sleep in your own bed is amazing! I struggle with energy with traveling when I don’t sleep well. Also all the prep that goes into getting ready to go somewhere takes energy as well. However, we did decide to set parameters around this. We did want it to be more relaxing and connecting that just “staying home”. We intentionally did not work on our businesses or discuss our adult children. We didn’t stick to a schedule or run around trying to do all the things! We relaxed and enjoyed each day as it came!! We did look around and try to do things that “tourists” would do. Once again, the location helped that since thousands of people vacation in this area every year. However, I do believe that you could have a staycation anywhere that you call home. Maybe drop off the kids at the grandparents instead of the grandparents coming to your home to babysit for a few days. Even in a small rural town in the middle of nowhere, I bet there are things you could do that you would normally overlook! Be curious and creative and make memories together.

Another advantage of a staycation is the cost! We can often go to the Cities for two nights over a weekend and spend upwards of $1,500. Between hotel, meals, movies, events, or shopping it can add up fast. Something about being in the big city by all the things, you feel obligated to spend more money! With just the two of us basically eating out one meal a day and sharing some entrees/appetizers, it was amazing how much less money we spent!! For meals, gas, and even local concert tickets the last night, we spent around $350.

Would highly recommend a staycation! It is relaxing and inexpensive. It is easier to be intentional because you are both more comfortable in your natural habitat. It is also an opportunity to be grateful and look around you for opportunities. We rate it a 10 out of 10 and will do it again!