Drop the fantasy. Pink beaches and romantic cruises make nice travel brochure pics, but what is vacation REALLY about? Recharging! By stepping back from your normal routine and taking the time to rest and recover, you recharge your batteries and come back to your work, home, and family refreshed. And recharging can be completely free.

Consider your options. Once you've removed unrealistic expectations and the resentment that comes along with it, you're ready for exciting possibilities. Make a list of things that help you recharge, without considering cost or time. For many people, sleeping late, having a quiet house to themselves, getting engrossed in a novel, or walking in a beautiful (free) park, botanical garden, or beach is all it takes. Maybe you like to ice-skate, dance, or try a new sport. For my neighbor, a week with no responsibilities would be filled with trying new recipes in her own kitchen-not very expensive and a treat for her family!

Make it happen. Once you know what you need, talk with friends and family to figure out how to pull it off. We've switched kids with my husband's sister, taking their kids for three days so they could vacation at home, and then sending ours to them. The kids thought it was a blast going to their cousins' home and having them over. But, even better, two couples got to re-connect and recharge. All-around great family bonding!