Hilton Head.

I was feeling heavy. Overwhelmed. Tired. The combination of sick children, sleep deprivation, and very little "me" time was starting to push me down a bit. I don't like feeling that way. I want to wake up with a smile on my face. I want to feel motivated and light. Our Hilton Head vacation arrived at the perfect time. Packing was a nightmare, but once our car hit the highway, I felt it... Freedom. It didn't matter that I was taking a sick child along, or that I was still going to be sleep deprived. Those things are easier to handle when you get a change in scenery, especially when that scenery becomes blue skies and an endless ocean.

As we do each year in January, we joined Sean's dad and step-mom for a winter get-away. The weather was kind to us this year. Gracie loves the beach. She runs, and runs, and digs, and even plops down long enough to enjoy the change of scenery for herself. Ethan was unsure of the cool sand, but even he seemed to appreciate the fresh ocean breeze and was completely content during our beach walks.

More than anything, I just enjoyed being with my family. I loved watching my kids have a good time. I enjoyed spending time with my husband. I appreciated the extra hands that were present to help me take care of my babies.

It was apparently what we all needed. I'm feeling refreshed, and while I wish we could have stayed even longer, this has been a good week at home. Even so...

I can't wait to go back.