"A Change of Scenery"

It had been a year since they'd settled into their new life in the States, and as Noah and Jacquie sat on the couch, watching Ellie-Mae and Mya play in the backyard, they couldn't help but think about their life before. They had moved to the States for Noah's job, and while it had been a great opportunity, they were starting to feel the distance from their family and friends back in Canada. "I don't know, maybe it's time we started thinking about moving back," Jacquie said, turning to Noah with a thoughtful expression. Noah nodded, considering the idea. "I've been thinking about it too," he said. "I miss the mountains, and the people, and the pace of life. It's just so different here." Jacquie sighed, running a hand through her hair. "And it's not just that. It's been really hard for us to find time for each other since we moved. We're always so busy with work and taking care of the girls, we never have any time just for us." Noah put his arm around her, pulling her close. "I know," he said. "I've been feeling it too. We need to make some changes." As they sat there, they both knew that they had to make some tough decisions. And one of those decisions was to take a break from the girls. Ellie-Mae and Mya were going to spend two weeks with their grandmother, while Noah and Jacquie headed to Benidorm for a much-needed vacation. The thought of leaving the girls behind was hard to bear, especially with Mya being only one year old and Ellie-Mae being seven. They felt guilty for abandoning them, even if it was just for a short time. But they both knew it was for the best. They needed some time to recharge, and to reconnect with each other. As they finalized their plans, Ellie-Mae came running into the room, Mya on her hip. "Mom, can I ask you something?" she said, looking up at Jacquie with big eyes. "What is it, sweetie?" Jacquie asked, smiling. "Grandma said we can go visit her for two weeks, right?" Ellie-Mae said, looking hopeful. Jacquie nodded, feeling a pang of guilt. "That's right, sweetie. You and Mya are going to go stay with Grandma for a little while." Ellie-Mae nodded, looking excited. "And what about you and Dad?" she asked. Noah smiled, putting his arm around Jacquie. "We're going on a little trip, just the two of us," he said. "We'll be back before you know it." Ellie-Mae nodded, looking understanding. "Okay," she said. "I'll be good, Mom. Don't worry." Jacquie smiled, hugging her tight. "I know you will, sweetie. We'll be back before you know it, and we'll have lots of stories to tell." As they hugged, Noah and Jacquie exchanged a look, both of them knowing that this was exactly what they needed. A change of scenery, and a chance to reconnect with each other. And with the girls safe and happy with their grandmother, they could finally take a breath and focus on themselves.