Staycation

While staycations can't compete with a two-week adventure in Maui, they're a great way to get some much-needed R&R for you and your bank account. It's all in your attitude. As a dear friend of mine likes to say, "I'll be a lady of leisure." So thinking to myself - it's the middle of winter in the San Francisco Bay Area and the sun is shining! It's the perfect time to enjoy a little "winter escape" in my own backyard

Before you set out to enjoy your ladyship of leisure, take some time to set yourself up for success with a few tricks:

Start with a clean space - you can't clear your mind of your troubles unless your space is clean. Whether you're staying at home or taking a road trip, make sure your space is tidy.

Set a budget - don't cheat yourself out of indulgences out of a fear of not having enough money. By the same token you don't want to damage your wallet by indulging in everything. Be smart and balance your splurges with some free/low-cost options to get the most out of your staycation.

Write an itinerary - budgeting your time is just as important as budgeting your money. Those PTO days are scarce!

With these tips under your belt you should be set up for success to enjoy your "free" time with the most potential for relaxation.

Bonus: Here are my brainstorms for taking my own staycation.

Budget:

• Enjoy a luxurious breakfast of toast with eggs over-medium and a cup of tea.
• Mix a cocktail/mocktail and lounge in the afternoon sun
• Take a bike ride in the woods and finish it off with a picnic.
• Hike the local trails and get back in touch with God's creation.
• Make a challenging recipe at home and enjoy it for dinner with your loved ones (extravagant meals are a lot less expensive when you do all the labor)

Splurge:

• Visit the (museum/aquarium/touring art exhibit) that you've heard so much about and linger. (Bask in the absence of families with their small children!)
• Make a reservation at that restaurant that you've been dying to try.
• Be a tourist in your own town! Chances are you've lived in your city for years but have never visited Ghiradelli Square, enjoyed the mini donuts at Pier 39, or been to Alcatraz. So go do it now!
• Stay at a hotel in San Francisco, Sonoma or Monterey and enjoy the local culture for an entire weekend.