Although routines are necessary to create a framework and to avoid reinventing our everyday life over and over they can also become drudgery. That's when it's time to stop. It's not always that a fancy trip to elsewhere is necessary, which brings its own kind of traveling stress with it.
My daughter was off for spring break this week and I let my scheduling reins loose and had some fun. I slept in, not as late as on week-ends, but later than my usual 5:30AM wake-up call. I worked a few hours less, no yoga this week, did some more cooking (I love trying out new recipes), sat with my daughter for her late breakfast and a chat, and had a few outings with her - some shopping, a community clothing swap, haircuts, a lunch out, a walk around town. All calm and quiet and relaxed.
Yes, if you know me, I did feel a bit guilty (like playing hooky from work). But then again I felt so free, so privileged to be able to take this time, so content, so much more relaxed. In our hectic culture time is utter luxury. Slowing down is worth every minute!