When I was pregnant, many—well-meaning—people warned me of what was to come. The sleepless nights, the anxiety, the body changes, the shift in my marriage and in my career, and of course, how my former jet-setting lifestyle would come to a halt. Truthfully, nothing could have prepared me for the transition into motherhood, and just how dramatically it would turn my world upside down.
So, in a sense, they were right about much of it (they spared me many of the raw realities). But in one way, they were wrong: I didn’t give up my passport when I became a mom.
I took more than 20 flights when I was pregnant, visiting several countries and cities. And when my daughter was born, she had a passport before the fourth trimester was over. She’s been across the Atlantic, up and down the East Coast, and on more road trips than I can count. She’ll visit the Caribbean for the first time in a matter of weeks.
And perhaps more astonishingly, I’ve continued to travel… without her. Solo for work, on a girl’s trip with my friends and romantic getaways with my husband. Though I battle mom guilt each time I hop on a plane, I also know I’m a happier person—and thus, better mom—for giving myself little weekends away to decompress and relax.
I firmly believe it’s vital to invest in friendships, your relationship and in yourself even, and especially, after becoming a mother. We all lose parts of ourselves when we birth a new heartbeat, but if we don’t fill our own cup, it’s hard to refill that bottle or sippy. For me, filling my cup means traveling.
That’s why, when I decided to create The Mother Chapter with my best friend via our company, Mila & Jo Media, I knew travel had to be part of the conversation. I’m thrilled to share today, on the official beginning of The Mother Chapter chronicles, we are able to give one mom (and the guest of her choice!) an incredible grand prize:
A spa weekend away at The Lodge at Woodloch!
In the heart of the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania, this resort is surrounded by lush landscapes and pristine woodlands, giving you full permission to go offline (and maybe receive a much-needed break from Ms. Rachel on repeat). The Lodge at Woodloch is renowned for its luxurious and peaceful ambiance, creating an idyllic environment for a spa getaway.
While here, you will enjoy elegant accommodations that blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surroundings, offering a serene atmosphere that promotes tranquility and self-discovery. During your stay, you can indulge in world-class spa facilities—from a variety of treatments and therapeutic massages to wellness programs designed to nurture both the body and mind.
What sets The Lodge at Woodloch apart is its comprehensive range of offerings tailored specifically for moms in need of pampering and self-care. From invigorating yoga classes and soothing meditation sessions to hands-on art classes and cooking demonstrations, you can customize your experience to suit your preferences.
The resort also boasts top-notch all-inclusive dining options that can meet a variety of nutritional restrictions and needs. With its commitment to providing a holistic wellness experience, The Lodge at Woodloch stands as the ultimate destination for moms seeking a spa weekend filled with relaxation, self-care, and rejuvenation.
I had the pleasure of staying at The Lodge at Woodloch on a snowy weekend a few years ago with a mom friend. We still recount our dreamy experience, nicknaming it ‘Snow Spa’—where we spent our day enjoying the amenities, having lunch in plush, fuzzy robes, and then sitting by a fire with a glass of wine in the evening. Classes change seasonally, and during our stay, we took an art class that was equal-parts educational and relaxing, giving us a break from the monotony that sometimes comes with raising tiny humans.
I’m so excited to give one much-deserving mama the time away she needs—and has earned. Mothering is full of joys, but as we’ll explore at The Mother Chapter, it’s also incredibly challenging and difficult. All moms deserve breaks. It’s not only okay to take them—but encouraged.
By entering our giveaway with The Lodge at Woodloch, you enter to win the following (amazing) grand prize:
- A two-night stay for two adults on their Intro to Spa Plan, which includes:
- Lavish accommodations
- Three artfully-crafted, gourmet meals per night of stay
- Opportunity to attend stimulating workshops
- Experiences for the mind, body, and soul
- Inspiring creative arts classes
- Scheduled group fitness classes and lectures
- Chef’s cooking and baking demonstrations
- Scheduled group outdoor adventure excursions
- A personal Spa Concierge to help design your program
- Health and fitness amenities including an indoor pool, Hydromassage WaterWalls, indoor and outdoor whirlpools, steam rooms, saunas, Snow Room, Tyrolean Bucket Shower, Himalayan Salt Sauna, and a state-of-the-art 3,000 square foot CardioWeight Studio.
Entering is simple:
- Follow @themotherchapter_ on Instagram
- Follow @thelodgeatwoodloch on Instagram
- Like this Instagram post and comment and tag a mom friend you want to bring on the trip!
- Share any post from @themotherchapter_ on your story and tag us for BONUS entries.
- To be eligible, you must be 21 years or older and located in the continental United States
- A link to our official rules can be found here
