A couple of weeks ago, my husband and I traveled to our happy place: Mykonos, Greece. This island has been special for us since we first visited it on our honeymoon eight years ago. My father had just passed away, so I was going through tough times. The island of Mykonos was my comfort pillow. It’s known to have energy points, which are healing and great for any spiritual seeker.

Ever since then, my husband and I travel to Mykonos as often as we can. This year, it was difficult to travel without my kids because I have a 7-month-old boy and a daughter who is 2-and-a-half and understands more. Luckily, I also have an amazing support system at home to help while I’m away.

Although it was difficult handling mother’s guilt as I traveled abroad, the vacation was necessary for our marriage. Parenting is a difficult job, and sometimes your kids cause arguments between you and your partner. It’s just part of life as a parent. To break away from your responsibilities with your partner and have time off is healthy. This type of break gives you fuel to come back as a stronger couple and as better parents.

That’s why, this year, I told my husband we needed a few days together in Mykonos to do absolutely nothing. I didn’t want to think; all I wanted to do was relax and have conversations about things that didn’t revolve around the kids.

It was good to be away on an adventure with my husband. It reminded us of the old days. I’ve been married to Ray for more than eight years, so it was important for us to have time alone to do things that keep our relationship alive. Taking this vacation made things exciting. It was kind of like when we first started dating.

I’m not here to preach about parenting or how to make a marriage work. Everyone has their own rules and knows what works for them. But I see so many marriages crumble because parents don’t take time to nurture their relationship. The sparks fade, and the couple almost forgets what it was like just being together. They get thrown into their kids’ responsibilities and feel like their marriage is a job. Taking trips without kids is something I believe every couple should do once a year. It’s for the benefit of the marriage and the kids too.

So remember: Taking some time to get away and travel with your partner is always good for the relationship and your soul.

XO,