Our Editor, Marie-Ève, shares a precious family secret with us:

At our house, back-to-school, the daily routine and the time change cause all sorts of nightmares!

You see, my three kids are like groundhogs. I can’t remember the last time they got up before me. It finally occurred to me that they simply need more sleep than most people, and interfering with their natural cycle for days on end results in badly behaved children who inevitably end up getting sick – not to mention parents at the end of their rope who have a hard time focusing and responding with kindness.

Family time is a priority for us, and we believe that, as parents, our job is to strengthen the family ties that make our home a safe place where we all feel a sense of connection, affection and relaxation.

Ever since the kids returned to school, we have been getting up early and going to bed late. From the beginning of our morning routine to the time when our heads hit the pillow, the day just seems overly long. The evening always ends in a rush, with so much to be done, even though this is a recipe for drama, bickering and futility. After a while, we can all feel the distance growing between us.

Over time, we have developed strategies to help us rediscover each other and recharge our batteries following these episodes where life is so intense. One of these strategies is to get out of the house for a few days and go far away – to a place where we can escape the daily grind!

The goal is to be 100% present with our children, far removed from our “adult” responsibilities and all of the “emergencies” that we normally have to deal with. This gives us all the time in the world to play, laugh, share precious moments and discover the world together.

 

Does any of this sound familiar?

You don’t need to get away for a long time, and you don’t even need to go very far! All you need is a place where you can feel welcome, where you have access to a variety of family-friendly activities and where you don’t have to worry about preparing the next meal or organizing your day. You may be surprised to learn that, for our next retreat, we have booked a family package at an Ôrigine hotel. Their packages include everything you need for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway. They offer well-designed facilities, outdoor and indoor activities and restaurants. You can even choose accommodations with a kitchen, where you can prepare your own meals.

We can’t wait to get there!

Follow our example, and plan a family getaway!