Who pinched me? I wanted to keep dreaming.

As a stay at home mom, vacation usually just means a change of scenery. My job comes with me and the hours pretty much stay the same. Sometimes it even feels more challenging because toddlers often thrive on the comforts of home that a hotel room can’t offer.

I am delighted to say that I just got back to New York from a trip that really did feel like a vacation. A true break from reality. A much needed escape.

It was an incredible experience on many levels. We stayed in the home of a family friend. This brand new waterfront mansion left nothing to be desired. It was immaculate, perfectly designed and decorated, fully stocked and even a bathroom for everyone (all 15 of us!) We had bikes, kayaks, a dream pool and spa and water park-style slide with no lines and no rules.

We were in the lap of luxury.

I was with my husband, our daughter, my parents, my brother and his girlfriend, along with family friends I have known since I was born.

We played cards, napped, had stupid competitions, cooked, drank, and most importantly, we laughed. Like the pee in your pants kind of laugh.

The Nut got to spend quality time with some of the people who love her the most but are separated by a nearly a thousand miles. She got hugs and extra cookies and learned new phrases like, “What da heck?”

I kept my phone in the closet and mostly avoided the seven computers and four iPads laying around. I remembered that the world doesn’t stop just because I’m not keeping tabs on facebook. You know what? I didn’t miss any of it a bit.

I slept better than I have in months and every day seemed like a gift to be opened and enjoyed.

The only bad part?

We had to come home.

Tomorrow is Monday and it’s back to reality for the three of us. B is getting on the train for the first time in two weeks. I’ll have sole responsibility for The Nut for twelve consecutive hours. She will have to readjust to Mama’s rules and I doubt she’ll be too charmed. Did I mention that her two-year molars are beginning to break through?

Wish us all luck.