We Need a Vacation!

on August 24, 2010
in All Posts

In the past two months…

 

The Husband graduated from acupuncture graduate school (June 19th):

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We moved from Orlando, Florida to Charlotte, North Carolina (June 27th):

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We drove to Pennsylvania for my best friend’s wedding (July 3rd):

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I began training for my second marathon and ran a speedy 4.0 mile race (July 24th):

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After a year of writing, publicizing, and blogging, the Operation Beautiful book was released in stores (August 3):

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I flew to NYC (ALL MY MYSELF) and appeared on The Today Show (August 5th):

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

And I did approximately 30 other radio and in-print interviews, as well as two other television spots, for the book release over the course of a single month (July and August):

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I fundraised for, organized, and ran a 200+ person, weekend-long Healthy Living Summit in Chicago (August 13 – 15th):

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I began to write my second book proposal and wrote numerous freelance articles…

 

I flew to Philadelphia for my best friend’s goodbye party (August 20 – 22nd):

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Since June 14, I’ve managed to log more than 152.5 miles in running… which I consider pretty epic considering the hectic pace I’ve been maintaining. 

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And in the meantime, my poor Husband was busy trying to set up his acupuncture practice!  He’s been swamped with his practice management software, insurance red tape, and other odds and ends.

 

All of our stress has been GOOD stress (well, I think God was playing a cruel joke when he scheduled The Today Show and the Healthy Living Summit a week apart…), but it’s still stress.  Sometimes I feel like I’m going to burst.  I know the Huz feels the same way!

 

In summary…

 

WE NEED A VACATION! 

 

The Husband and I are spending two nights in a small private cabin in the middle of the Great Smokey Mountains.  No fancy dinners out, no social outings with other friends… just us, the woods, (and high speed Internet so I can blog).  :) 

 

The place we’re staying at is absolutely incredible… wait until you see it!

 

Have you felt overwhelmed lately, too?  Where would you vacation to if you could go anywhere?

{ 160 comments }

 

  • Freya (Brit Chick Runs) August 24, 2010, 1:42 pm

    You DESERVE a holiday!!
    I always get massively overwhelmed around june time, when my exams are..that’s the worst.
    My dream holiday = the USA, hands down!

  • Aundra (Fit for Life) August 24, 2010, 1:44 pm

    Good for you, Caitlin! You deserve it!! Congratulations on all your recent success.

    I want to go to Alaska. Next May. That’s my dream holiday!

  • Marci August 24, 2010, 1:44 pm

    Hooray for vacation. Enjoy it! I am a firm believer in frequent vacations or at least time to recharge. My dream vacation right now is somewhere where the temperature is in the 60s or 70s. Texas is over 100 and it’s getting old!

  • Sarah (Running to Slow Things Down) August 24, 2010, 1:44 pm

    I can’t believe all the things you’ve accomplished. That’s insane (in a positively awesome way 😀 ).

    I’ve just started with the whole feeling of being busy this past week, now that my internship has started. I’m sure by the end, I’ll be ready for a vacation somewhere too. Paris would be nice. 😉

  • Jenn @ LiveWellFitNow August 24, 2010, 1:47 pm

    My goodness life has been a whirlwind for you two! So deserved! So many wonderful things.

    Now, go enjoy your time away! Disappear, relax and recover!

    Overwhelm definitely existed in my life but for wonderful reasons. I am still getting my wellness & fitness coaching practice off the ground and was married last month. Our time away was our perfect honeymoon. It was the best way to press RESET! We all need that sometimes 🙂

    Now it’s back to do do do! But I love it. I’ve never loved anything more than the practice and business I am creating!

  • Angharad August 24, 2010, 1:50 pm

    Amazed that you’ll still be blogging on vacation – dedication! I’ve stayed in a cabin in the great smokeys!! It was phenomenal. We went white water rafting, rode bikes and hiked – pure bliss! Have so much fun!

  • Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin August 24, 2010, 1:51 pm

    Wow good for you Caitlin!! You deserve it! =)

  • Faith August 24, 2010, 1:52 pm

    Love the Smokey Mountains-so beautiful!

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) August 24, 2010, 1:52 pm

    oh girl, i feel you on the overwhelmed thing…even though mine hasn’t included travel, it’s getting crazy here! i would go to St. Lucia or Virgin Gorda in the BVI and park my happy butt on a beach with a rum drink (or 12) and a good book 🙂

  • Carolyn @ lovinlosing August 24, 2010, 1:52 pm

    The Smokey mountains are beautiful! We stayed at a mountain resort there called Fontana Mountain Village for a wedding once. It was beautiful!

  • Bethany @ More Fruit Please August 24, 2010, 1:53 pm

    I’m glad you and the hubby are going to get away together. You two deserve it! You’re lives have totally transformed in the past two months!

  • Lindsay August 24, 2010, 1:54 pm

    Have fun! I need a vacation too with everything going around here but probably no big ones until my health counseling certification is over …and I get everything with my business started

  • Niki August 24, 2010, 1:54 pm

    Enjoy your moments together Caitlin!!

  • Kelly August 24, 2010, 1:55 pm

    Aww yaaay, you totally deserve it! Enjoy you’re break!

  • Laine @ Beets, Butter & Moutaintops August 24, 2010, 1:55 pm

    I just got back from 3 days in the mountains (I had to drive 10 minutes to find a phone signal and 3 towns away to find wifi) That’s where I’m headed back to when I get the chance.

  • Evan Thomas August 24, 2010, 1:55 pm

    If anyone in the blogworld deserves it’s a vacation, it’s you; I’m surprise you didn’t take one sooner! (Not like you had time) Where are the pooches for the next few days?

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 4:30 pm

      Thats what moms are for!

  • Molly August 24, 2010, 1:56 pm

    you are seriously living the dream though. YOU’VE MADE IT! and I am so proud of ya! but hell girl you DO deserve a vacation. or 10. Have a blast 🙂

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) August 24, 2010, 1:58 pm

    VACATION! You both need one. Get some rest.

    For me I would love to just go to a small hotel in Spain and enjoy the the sights while showing them to Hunni. It is like my second home 🙂

  • Katie (Sweet Tater) August 24, 2010, 1:58 pm

    awesommme. i can’t wait to see where it is. i could use a trip like that. also, if you haven’t been to asheville yet, we MUST go. vegetarian food galore.

  • Heather August 24, 2010, 1:58 pm

    Have a great vacation, you guys definitely deserve one!

    I’m in serious need of a vacay, totally overwhelmed lately although I’m starting to feel a bit more in control.

    If I could go anywhere to vacation right now it would be to Italy so I could lose myself in another culture and eat delicious food.

  • Andrea August 24, 2010, 1:58 pm

    Girl you make my head spin and I’m used to head spinning being a full time working mom with two little ones. Good for you! Take it easy and have a great time. Looking forward to hearing about it!

  • Christine August 24, 2010, 1:59 pm

    You really did need a vacation! But despite all the stress, everything you did seems like it has been a ton of fun.

    I just finished vacationing two weeks ago and it was great. I spent a week in upstate NY on Lake Champlain and then a week in Dallas TX!

  • Anne @thefitbridesmaid August 24, 2010, 2:00 pm

    You deserve it! Aren’t you glad you only live 4 hours away from your mom now? A much more manageable drive!

    • claire August 24, 2010, 2:38 pm

      Completely random post but I cannot fathom how big the USA is! 4 hours here in England would get u the majority of the way across the country! *would love to go to America* 🙂

      • Anne @thefitbridesmaid August 24, 2010, 2:40 pm

        Right now we live 18 hours from my fiance’s family. It’s ridiculous!

        We live in Massachusetts, and it’s so tiny compared to my homestate of Ohio. Only 1.5-2 hours to drive across the state.

        • claire August 24, 2010, 2:59 pm

          Crazy! That’s a mega journey. We are teeny in comparison- only takes about an hour to fly across England! Boring but true fact ha.

  • Sarah @ See Sarah Eat August 24, 2010, 2:00 pm

    I love the Smokies! Definitely relaxing. Enjoy!

  • RhodeyGirl August 24, 2010, 2:00 pm

    That sounds soooooo nice. I can’t wait for winter… PB and I are going to go on as many ski trips as possible- I can’t wait to snuggle in the lodge and read books while drinking hot cocoa!

  • Kacy August 24, 2010, 2:01 pm

    You do need a vaca! Enjoy!

    I’ve definitely felt overwhelmed lately, but for less exciting reasons.

  • Rachel (Two Healthy Plates) August 24, 2010, 2:02 pm

    Sounds like a great time – My husband and I LOVE the smokies, it’s not too far from us so we rent a cabin there twice a year. My favorite is the fall, the leaves are awesome!

    Have an awesome getaway – you both deserve it!

  • Maren August 24, 2010, 2:02 pm

    you do need a vacation, get it done right girl!

  • Shanna, like Banana August 24, 2010, 2:04 pm

    I think you are impressive and amazing and should take as much time as you need 🙂

  • Marie August 24, 2010, 2:04 pm

    So glad you’re getting a vacation! I was feeling very overwhelmed at the beginning of my summer semester, and the day after I finished we headed down for a week trip to Asheville, NC to just hang out and EAT! It was great. Mountains are definitely my idea of a vacation destination 🙂 Have a great trip!

  • Kimberley August 24, 2010, 2:05 pm

    That is so funny…my husband and I are doing the exact same thing next weekend. I can’t wait! Although I’m not as convinced that I “deserve” a vacation after seeing your list of recent accomplishments. I actually feel kinda lazy. 😉

  • Dynamics August 24, 2010, 2:06 pm

    Yeah, the best vacations. Just enjoying with no stress. Leaving the laptop at home would have been the ultimate! I wonder, would you get bitchy and go through withdrawals?

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday August 24, 2010, 2:08 pm

    Ditch the internet. I’m sure you could use a vacation from blogging too for a couple days.

  • Stacey August 24, 2010, 2:09 pm

    This morning when I was reading your blog I kept thinking “How does this girl not go into conniption from constantly being on the move?!” 😀
    You and your husband have been very, very blessed, but along with that comes exhaustion! The mountains are a great way to unwind and get away from society for a while.
    Jason and I were feeling that way a couple weeks ago, so we went camping in the n.c. mountains way up near VA..and it felt great!

  • Amber from Girl with the Red Hair August 24, 2010, 2:11 pm

    Ahhhh so exciting!!! Me and my b/f are going to a cabin on the ocean in September because I am also in desperate need of a vacation from work/freelancing/marathon training (though my life isn’t nearly as busy as yours :P)

    I don’t plan on bringing my laptop though because I know it’ll be too easy to get pulled into doing freelance work/reading blogs/twittering etc. I just need a technology-free weekend, I think!

    Make sure you ONLY use your laptop for blogging. No “work” 😉

  • Lauren at KeepItSweet August 24, 2010, 2:12 pm

    Sounds amazing enjoy! You should turn off the internet/phone for at least part of it to really get away!

  • Jodi August 24, 2010, 2:14 pm

    Much Deserved!!!

    Have a great time Caitlin!
    enjoy every peaceful second.

    🙂

  • Holly @ couchpotatoathlete August 24, 2010, 2:16 pm

    Life definitely gets crazy and overwhelming sometimes!

    J and I are in the beginning stages of planning a vacation for next Spring — J’s work will not let him take vacation until March (big project they are working on) — so that is the only reason we are waiting.

    It sure is nice to have something like that to look forward to. Enjoy your time!

  • Nicole @ yuppie yogini August 24, 2010, 2:16 pm

    I’m increasingly becoming overwhelmed by changing rules at work…I don’t like to be micromanaged. I need a vacation and want to stay home honestly.

  • Penny August 24, 2010, 2:19 pm

    That sounds like a excellent vacation! You have definitely earned it. 🙂

  • ashleigh August 24, 2010, 2:21 pm

    You guys have been busy and do deserve a vacation! I hope you enjoy it.

    I am so overwhelmed and am in desperate need of a real vacation but don’t have the time off or $! Oh well, time to start saving for next year!

  • Rachael @ Mrs-Adventure August 24, 2010, 2:21 pm

    Ooooh I love the Smokey Moutians enjoy the get-away… Heck I think you should even unplug the computer for the two days you need it for sure!

  • M August 24, 2010, 2:21 pm

    To be honest, I really think you and the hubby
    should FORGET about highspeed internet!
    Everybody takes a day or two COMPLETELY away from work in their year, and you both deserve some time dedicated only
    to yourselves and each other.I personally think everyone needs a day or two (more actually!)to be away from their”office” even if their “office” is transportable and can go on holiday with you doens’t mean it should!

    I sincerely hope you “tune out” of blogging ,internet, email and twitter and “just be” in the mountains.
    Hey,you can recap your weekend next week.

    Life is too short not to turn off the power for 2 days.

    Be free!!!!! We will still be here upon your 2 day absence-in fact you will be demonstrating a very healthy thing to us-disconnecting the technical can reconnect the personal!

    (can you tell i feel strongly about this issue?!!!)

    • Reenie August 24, 2010, 2:49 pm

      ITA!! I think she should take a break from blogging too. Although I would miss ya, I would completely understand.

      You 2 have a great time!! You both deserve it.

      • Kim August 24, 2010, 3:41 pm

        I agree! Take a break from blogging, I’m sure you enjoy doing it, but everyone deserves a nice quiet, relaxing weekend with the one they love.

        My husband is unable to turn his phone off for even a day because he is always on call. I would LOVE a work free weekend, heck a work free day with him.

        Take a break, we understand and encourage it!

        • caitlin August 24, 2010, 4:31 pm

          I would go into blogging withdrawals! Plus I really enjoy it.

  • Brittany (A Healthy Slice of Life) August 24, 2010, 2:22 pm

    I was just taking a deep breath because I feel so dang overwhelmed, but hearing your last hectic 2 months put mine to shame…. 😉

    The mountains are my ideal place to unwind! Enjoy, and breath in some of that magical mountain air!!

  • Victoria August 24, 2010, 2:26 pm

    Enjoy yourselves! The Smokies are a perfect place to unplug.

  • anne August 24, 2010, 2:28 pm

    Forgot about the internet! Have fun with your husband!

  • Tina August 24, 2010, 2:29 pm

    You NEED this vacation! I hope you use that computer for blogging only missy! Said with love, of course. 😉

    Take the time to take it all in and relax.

  • Katy(The Balanced Foodie) August 24, 2010, 2:30 pm

    Just reading about all you’ve done in the last 6 months-year is exhausting!! You both deserve this, you’re amazing! I am so so sooooo glad you’re taking a little break. Enjoy it! Rest up and soak it in before you head back to reality. 🙂 Can’t wait to see pics!

  • Brendali August 24, 2010, 2:31 pm

    All I can is OH EM GEE!!!!
    Just went there recently on a road trip with my fiance and it is absolutely breath taking! Honestly one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!!!
    You so deserve it!!!!!!!!!

  • Shannon, Tropical Eats August 24, 2010, 2:34 pm

    proud of you!!!!!!!!!!!

    my family and i love to go to helen, georgia. love northeast georgia and the babbling brooks!

  • AngelaOSG August 24, 2010, 2:34 pm

    I just busted a gut at this last part “just us, the woods, (and high speed Internet so I can blog).”

    LOL 😉

    Enjoy it!

  • Me-Linh @ Sweet and Sweat August 24, 2010, 2:37 pm

    Have a great one! You definitely deserve like WEEKS of vacation, not days!

  • Lisa August 24, 2010, 2:37 pm

    Wow that’s a lot of stuff! I hadn’t realized how much until you listed it out. I’d be having a meltdown by now. 😉

    I’ve had A LOT this summer.
    Work drama.
    Out of town guests (for almost a month)
    Training for Hood to Coast
    Running Hood To Coast this weekend

    I need a vacation too!!

  • Camille August 24, 2010, 2:38 pm

    You deserve a vacation! Holy smokes!
    If I could go anywhere right now, it would be Ireland. Never mind the fact that I have been there before… it’s my favorite place on the planet 🙂

  • Amanda (Two Boos Who Eat) August 24, 2010, 2:39 pm

    Just reading all of that makes me tired Caitlin. I’m glad you guys are going on vacation. Have a great time!

  • Maren August 24, 2010, 2:40 pm

    man that is overwhelming! I’m sure it’s a much-needed vacation! My getaway is the lake. My grandma has moved out to the lake from Memorial Day to Labor Day every summer since I can remember and there’s nothing better than spending time there…even if it takes 7 hours to drive there! hope you are enjoying your vacation! Can’t wait to see pics!

  • Monique@FindingtheCouragetoChange August 24, 2010, 2:41 pm

    Agree on the internet! We’ll be right here when you get back! Take a breather!

  • Trish August 24, 2010, 2:43 pm

    I am glad you’re getting a break. I think it is really needed. And hopefully another, longer vacation is ahead – it seems like you could use it. I don’t know how you’ve been doing it all.

  • Nicole August 24, 2010, 2:47 pm

    Sounds like a well-deserved vacation! Don’t be afraid to take a vacation from the blog as well! We all love you enough to stick around until you get back- it IS only 2 nights, after all.

  • Sarah for Real August 24, 2010, 2:48 pm

    Oh yeah!!! I thought you were about to say, “So I’ll be taking a blog vacation for two days as well.” Which would have been 100% A-O-K!

    Of course I’m super glad that you’re not!

  • Rose August 24, 2010, 2:50 pm

    You certainly deserve it after the summer you’ve had! Truth be told, I feel like I’ve been on vacation since I moved, so I’m looking forward to a routine again!

  • Christy August 24, 2010, 2:54 pm

    This hit home with me today too. I try to cram so much stuff into our already hectic schedule that I’m taking a break from “training” and am just going to have fun running, biking etc. I just want to simplify our lives right now. I just want to put my family first (not that I’m not important) but having a “training” schedule makes it too chaotic! I need a vacation too but have to wait until the kiddos do because I have to be home with them! An added bonus.

    Have a wonderful vacation!!!

  • Nicole August 24, 2010, 2:56 pm

    Wow..looking back at those pictures, I feel like all of those things just happened like … yesterday. This past 2 months have flown! You two deserve this break. I wouldn’t be mad at you (or blame you) if you took the next two days off from blogging compeltely. Enjoy your time with your husband!!!

  • Heather August 24, 2010, 2:57 pm

    you have been super busy! yay for a vaca! we have had a super stressful crazy summer with my FIL passing away, so we decided we needed one too, and are taking one in 2 weeks!

  • Nicole August 24, 2010, 3:03 pm

    The Smoky Mountains is my favorite place for a relaxing vacation. My husband and I rent a cabin and chill out in the hot tub all week. We went there on our honeymoon and try to go on our anniversaries. It’s a great way to get away from everyone and focus on each other. No vacation ever recharges me that way those do. Have fun!

  • Ellen@FirednFabulous August 24, 2010, 3:10 pm

    Oh girl, you NEED a vacation! Or at least a stay-cation (hotel, spa, massage) until you can get away! I just spent a week in Montauk and it was the BEST vacation ever. So chill and fun…just what I needed at the end of my hectic summer 🙂

  • Tracey @ I'm Not Superhuman August 24, 2010, 3:12 pm

    You two totally deserve a vacation. I can’t wait to see the place. It sounds like something I’d be interested in doing…so details please! 🙂

  • Anne August 24, 2010, 3:13 pm

    Wow, girl, you have been biz-E!!!! Unplug and get some rest, and enjoy some alone time with the hubby!

    I am dying to go on vacation – we haven’t been anywhere since the summer before last. Hopefully next summer/fall my hubby and I will travel back to Scotland or northern Europe. I’m counting the days already!

  • Leanne @ Radiant, Balanced & Fit August 24, 2010, 3:13 pm

    You may take this as a completely crazy idea so brace yourself…

    I think you should turn off your computer for the whole two days you are on vacation! Although I would miss hearing about what you’re up to, it would be good to disconnect from everything except your husband!

    Just consider it! And then after the vacation is done you can do one big RECAP post of the two vacation days!

  • Christie {Honoring Health} August 24, 2010, 3:15 pm

    So glad you are getting away! Hope you spend some good, unplugged time with the hubby to just relax!

  • Emmanuelle August 24, 2010, 3:18 pm

    Enjoy! What you have accomplished is awesome and so inspiring 🙂

  • eri August 24, 2010, 3:19 pm

    good for you two! sounds like a great, relaxing vacation to recharge 🙂

    my friend just came back from bora bora….looking at all her pics, i’m now obsessed with wanting to go there!

  • Stacey (The Habit of Healthy) August 24, 2010, 3:25 pm

    With all that going on, I’m not surprised you need a vacation! I’m just curious, do you ever feel like you need a vacation from blogging?

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 4:32 pm

      Naw I love blogging. 🙂

  • Laurie August 24, 2010, 3:25 pm

    You and the husband enjoy your much needed vacation in the Smokies! My husband and I love it there. We go couple times a year, it is so relaxing and peaceful up in the mountains! There are great hiking trails all around there. Have fun!

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) August 24, 2010, 3:26 pm

    I haven’t been overwhelmed lately because I have had the summer off from work and school … they are both starting back up again right away, so I am sure I will need a vacation by Christmas!

  • Betty August 24, 2010, 3:27 pm

    My bf and I actually felt the same way just two weeks ago and we got a cabin in The White Mountains in Greer, AZ. We loved it and want to do it again. I think you will really enjoy it. 🙂 Have fun.

  • Julie (Etsy Stalkers) August 24, 2010, 3:32 pm

    Good for you!!! I don’t know how you get so much done in a day. I’m pretty proud of myself when I empty the dishwasher and do the laundry on the SAME day.

    I’m jonesing to head back to Costa Rica. People are friendly and it’s not too expensive. And I totally like monkeys.

  • Caitlin @ Right Foot Forward August 24, 2010, 3:33 pm

    You definitely deserve that vacation! Enjoy a glorious two days in the mountains 🙂

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine August 24, 2010, 3:39 pm

    You definitely deserve this vacation!! I hope you enjoy every second of it!!

  • Mrs. Muffins August 24, 2010, 3:51 pm

    Wow, you HAVE been busy, haven’t you!? Have a great vacation 🙂

    xx

  • Jen August 24, 2010, 3:54 pm

    A well-earned vacation! It sounds amazing and refreshing. I need to get away and shake up my routine every once in a while; last winter, my boyfriend and I had both just gone through a really stressful time period of applying to graduate school programs, working as much as possible (I had two different jobs at the time), and facing a lot of uncertainty over our career paths. We were both emotionally, physically, and mentally drained. So we took a weekend and went up to Vermont– minimal planning (just booked a hotel room), no computers, no obsessing over application status. It was just what we needed… and now that we’re both in grad school, I think we’ll need to do that every once in a while, check out from reality and check in with each other.

  • Jasmine @ Eat Move Write August 24, 2010, 3:58 pm

    Oh man. I’m with you. I’ve been writing my book, freelancing, trying to lose the marital 20 I’ve put on, and building my blog. It’s frantic!

    If I could go anywhere, I would probably go somewhere relatively close. Maybe Catalina Island with the hubby. Get massages, lay on the beach, swim, read a book for fun! Sounds amazing!

    I’ve yet to go to the Smokies, although I grew up in Southern Indiana and totally should have gone. You guys will have so much fun!

  • Lauren @ Girlwiththepinkhat.blogspot.com August 24, 2010, 4:01 pm

    Have a great vacation! Can’t wait to hear how it is to run up there!

  • Rachel @ Suburban Yogini August 24, 2010, 4:04 pm

    Totally overwhelmed. I’m setting up a new business as well as online yoga classes and writing my book proposal and Himself has just been promoted to senior consultant. We barely see each other. We’ve just booked a month off to go to Australia to see my family but it’s not until April 2011!!! I think we’re going to have a long weekend somewhere in the UK in the not too distant future before we go mad!

    Have a fabulous break, you both deserve it.

  • Hillary [Nutrition Nut on the Run] August 24, 2010, 4:04 pm

    I am so glad to hear you’re taking a RELAXING vacation – you deserve it!! If only you could allow yourself not to blog for 48hrs, I think you could be a totally refreshed woman – enjoy!

  • Erin August 24, 2010, 4:05 pm

    my wish for you and your hubby is a whole 2 weeks of glorious vacation. may it find you soon!

  • Lindsay @ The Ketchup Diaries August 24, 2010, 4:06 pm

    So overwhelmed that I feel like I could crash. So happy to hear you are taking a vacation, though!

  • Amber K August 24, 2010, 4:08 pm

    I have definitely felt overwhelmed lately. But I haven’t been anywhere near as busy as you! I’m so glad you’re getting to take a well-deserved vacation!

  • Juli D. August 24, 2010, 4:09 pm

    Have an amazing time!! – the H and I spent 3 nights in the backcountry of the Smokies for a break (although, a little more rugged than your vaca since we were in a tent and carried our needs on our back). It was lovely – we did spend a couple nights in a cabin as well. Right now we are very stressed – our dog tore his ACL and needs surgery and we found out we need almost $1000 worth of repairs on our vehicle in the past week. But, we leave for a 2 and a half week tour of Ireland in 3 days – so we’ll relax then.

  • Alison August 24, 2010, 4:11 pm

    I hope you two really enjoy your get-a-way. I’m jealous! While I’m DEFINITELY not as busy as you, I would really love some time away with my husband. Have a wonderful time!

  • Alexandra August 24, 2010, 4:12 pm

    All I have to say is: YOU ARE AMAZING! Enjoy your well deserved break with your hubby.

  • Laura@FindingAHealthyBalance....after a 100+ Pound weight loss!!! August 24, 2010, 4:14 pm

    Oh, tell me about it I feel ACTUALLY the same way! I have been super busy too, no not as busy as you but close and it is hard to keep up with……….you will have a great quite VACA I know it. =)

  • Brittney August 24, 2010, 4:15 pm

    Have a wonderful relaxing time! We should get together when you get back 🙂

  • Katie @ peacebeme August 24, 2010, 4:18 pm

    That sounds so fun. I lived in Nashville for awhile while my fiance was stationed at Fort Campbell, KY and I really wanted to go on a trip to the Great Smoky Mountains but never made it. I did drive through them once though on my way to Virginia.

    My vacation right now would be anywhere I could go to see my love! I haven’t seen him for 9 months 🙁 but I will see him in Thailand soon, that will be a dream!

    I also want to go back to San Diego, I was there a month ago but only got to stay for a few days. My grandma’s beach house there is so relaxing.

    I am unemployed though so I would have to say that I WISH I was busier and don’t need a vacay right now!!!

  • Liza August 24, 2010, 4:26 pm

    Wow, you have accomplished so much in so short of a time! You go, girl!
    Definitely time to vaca!
    If I could vacation anywhere– there are numerous places abroad that I’m hoping to get to at some point, but I’ve also really been wanting to do a “tour-de-USAnationalparks.” 🙂 Hiking, photographing, and being in nature. RELAXATION. Love it.

  • Erica August 24, 2010, 4:27 pm

    Oh how amazing! Gatlinburg is my very favorite place to go in the whole world…yes, WORLD! I love it! We have spent a TON of time out there because my hubby has built a house out there. In fact, maybe it’s the one you’re staying in 😉 Wouldn’t that be cool?! I’ll tell you as soon as you post a pic. Enjoy yourself, breathe in some fresh smoky mountain air, and relax…you both deserve it!

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) August 24, 2010, 4:33 pm

    I love Gatlinburg or really anywhere in TN. Overwhelmed is an understatement here. We have 4 mouths to feed on one income. My husband has worked his butt off just to make us survive. So, yeah, a vacation in the middle of nowhere would be greatly appreciated about right now! I hope you two have a great time and get some rest!

  • Jennifer August 24, 2010, 4:34 pm

    Good for you guys!!!! Have a great time on your (much deserved) vacation.

    If I could go anywhere, I love a good beach. Sunshine, aqua blue waters, and peace & quiet is what makes the best vacation for me. My BFF and I are planning a trip to Malaysia, which I am so excited about!

  • Michelle August 24, 2010, 4:35 pm

    Good for you!!! You both deserve it.

    If I could go anywhere it would be to the beach. Nothing more relaxing for me than the beach.

  • Natalie August 24, 2010, 4:37 pm

    i love time away with my hub! sounds like a fabulous vacay! enjoy 🙂

  • Kathryn August 24, 2010, 4:38 pm

    enjoy your vacation! you deserve it!

    Id go to an all inclusive somewhere 🙂 I love not having to worry about anything!

  • Allie August 24, 2010, 4:43 pm

    good for you!!! relax!!

  • lisasfoods August 24, 2010, 4:49 pm

    Ooh – new book proposal? When can you tell us about it?

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 7:07 pm

      heheh soon i hope!

  • Liz @ Tip Top Shape August 24, 2010, 5:01 pm

    Wow this has really been a busy year for you! Well, you deserve this vacation! Have fun 😀

  • lizz August 24, 2010, 5:07 pm

    Enjoy your vacation- you deserve it big time!

  • Brittany August 24, 2010, 5:12 pm

    That is awesome girl! That is where my husband and I are from, so if you need any good tips on places to eat let me know!!! Feel free to e-mail me at brittanyann85@gmail.com

  • Whitney August 24, 2010, 5:31 pm

    Aww we go to the Great Smokey Mountains every year for Christmas. It is absolutely beautiful that time of year! You guys have fun!!

  • Katie - Life Discombobulated August 24, 2010, 5:35 pm

    Geez!!! You have been BUSY!!! You guys definitely deserve a vacation, so it’s a good thing you’re taking a little one. : )
    I’ve felt extremely busy lately, too. I finished and defended my graduate thesis, graduated, moved to a new state and started a PhD program at a new school in less than a month. Yikes. It looks like I’ll have to wait for December to take a vacation, though. 🙁

  • shannon August 24, 2010, 5:48 pm

    Take a break from blogging! We’ll still be here when you get back!

  • Summer August 24, 2010, 5:50 pm

    Oh, I love the Smokies! It’s so beautiful and relaxing. I hope you have a wonderful trip—be sure to treat yourself to some fudge and taffy!

  • Ashley August 24, 2010, 6:01 pm

    Overwhelmed and stressed does not even begin to explain my feelings! This year has been my hardest year of life ever, especially in the past few weeks. I need a break. SO happy you’re getting one!

  • christina cadden August 24, 2010, 6:04 pm

    Congrats on all your accomplishments!

  • Megan G August 24, 2010, 6:07 pm

    I hear ya with feeling overwhelmed. I start senior year of high school in a couple weeks, and I have tons of summer assignments to finish, college essays and applications, volunteering, and marching band camp. Plus, I’m training for a 5k in October. Whew. I’d love a vacation. Enjoy yours!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin August 24, 2010, 6:09 pm

    I’m overwhelmed just by reading about your past month! Kudos on getting through it in one piece. You so deserve this vacation! 🙂

  • marie August 24, 2010, 6:16 pm

    wow, i didn’t think i could be so happy for a complete stranger. you have worked SO HARD and totally deserve this time off with your husband! have a really nice time (and please write about it so i can live vicariously through you)!

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 7:08 pm

      thank you hunny 🙂

  • kristin August 24, 2010, 6:20 pm

    you deserve it- have fun!!!

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter August 24, 2010, 6:32 pm

    I can definitely see how you would feel very overwhelmed by everything! Yikes. A cabin in the woods seems like the perfect vacation 🙂

  • Syl August 24, 2010, 6:44 pm

    Caitlin, I went into Chapters today and bought the operation beautiful book, when the lady helping me asked who the author was I said “Caitlin Boyle”, as I said it I felt as though you were someone I knew, a friend 😉

    I approached the cashier who was eyeing the book, I told her what it was about and she kept flipping, I was in a bit of a rush but told her that it’s worth every penny and she should get herself a copy, i then smiled at her and she smiled back.

    I saw that my entry was put into your book, thank you for that. I am still working on my self image, but with tools like this book how can one not succeed.

    thank you for doing what you do and inspiring us all.

    Have a well deserved vacation!

    • eatmovelove August 24, 2010, 6:50 pm

      LOL I felt the same way – and I only just read her blog recently 😉

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 7:09 pm

      Love your story Syl!! Thank you again for contributing to the book 🙂

  • eatmovelove August 24, 2010, 6:51 pm

    Okay – inquiring minds want, NEED, to know! – What is the next book about?? Do tell…:)

    Take a vacation. Seriously. Away from it all. As long as your out enjoying life, you’ll know what’s right for you.

    Oh and I love your dress in the first pic! Gorgeous.

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 7:09 pm

      heheh i cannot tell you yet!! 🙂

  • Monica August 24, 2010, 6:53 pm

    Congrats on taking some down time with the hubby! It sounds like you two really need it!
    Oh and your vacation should include some special bubbly as you two have accomplished so much to be incredibly proud of! 🙂

  • Jessica@tastyandtrim August 24, 2010, 7:10 pm

    You most definitely deserve a vacation! If I could go anywhere it would probably be Europe-I’d love to visit Italy and France 🙂

  • Shari August 24, 2010, 7:21 pm

    I’ve definitely been feeling overwhelmed lately, but almost in a good way (I know, I know, that doesn’t make much sense). Is it a bit crazy to tackle two different writing projects and query agents for a third at the same time? Probably, but I love every minute despite how time-consuming it is. I actually AM going on vacation next week and am already trying to figure out how I can squeeze in some work time 😉

    Good luck with the book proposal, and have a WONDERFUL mini vacation!!

  • Sara August 24, 2010, 7:24 pm

    You really need the break! Good for you! I hope you have a great time! I think I’d go anywhere! As long as it was away from our home for a few days–I’m game!

  • Michal August 24, 2010, 7:29 pm

    I’ve spent the last 2 years since I finished grad school moving to two new states and three apartments, finding and starting new jobs, and all the other aspects of a changing life… sometimes I joke that what I’m looking forward to most about finding a fulltime position is finally being able to save the money to go on vacation! 😀 I hope you two have a lovely and restful time!

  • amanda @ Hungry Vegan Traveler August 24, 2010, 7:35 pm

    You are an amazing, unstoppable lady. I would love to hear your tips on how to not only tackle big projects, but how to REALLY start them. Operation Beautiful seems like it just stemmed from a little idea and grew into a big movement (and a book deal!), but what about the Healthy Living Summit? You need a whole TEAM to put that together. How do you contact sponsors, afford everything, schedule speakers, etc? HOW DO YOU DO IT ALL?!?!

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 7:44 pm

      Hmm I think I’m just good about identifying the steps necessary to achieve a goal and then tackling them one by one. think you really need an overall plan for something instead of just tackling it halfheartedly or as it comes.

      also, wine helps 🙂

  • amanda @ Hungry Vegan Traveler August 24, 2010, 7:38 pm

    And also, YES, I am very stressed out about 95% of my waking hours (and even some of my sleeping hours!). I’m constantly trying to figure out how to handle my stress (and I’ll be blogging about this soon, if you’re interested). As far as a relaxing vacation, well, that’s not the kind of traveler I am. When I travel, I want to go everywhere, see everything, meet everyone, taste everything, and take lots of pictures to remember it all!

    My dream destination, of all the places in the world, is San Francisco. (But there really isn’t any place I don’t want to visit.)

  • Susan A. August 24, 2010, 8:01 pm

    Did you know that you are in the September edition of Woman’s Day magazine? Page 101…there is a nice story about Operation Beautiful. I was happily reading along while waiting in the carpool line and saw the article. Had a big smile on my face since I read your blog daily! Congratulations…and go get a copy….happy to mail mine if you would like it…Susan

    • caitlin August 24, 2010, 10:02 pm

      Thank you for your support 🙂 Yes I did see it 🙂 So exciting!

  • Lauren August 24, 2010, 8:04 pm

    I am so happy to hear this! You guys have been going a warp speed lately, but all for the most amazing things. You two not only need this restful vacation together, you truly deserve it more than anyone I know! Enjoy the next few days! 🙂

  • Laura (Starloz) August 24, 2010, 8:08 pm

    Yes you do need a vacation. have an awesome time lovely

  • Wei-Wei August 24, 2010, 8:10 pm

    Of course you deserve a vacation, go out there and your only mission is to RELAX and UNWIND. That’s an order, Caitlin!

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit August 24, 2010, 8:20 pm

    That’s such a gorgeous part of the country! Enjoy it 🙂

  • Pam C August 24, 2010, 8:43 pm

    I saw the pic you posted on twitter; I wanted to dive right in. It looks so refreshing… like a deep breath. Enjoy!

  • Teacherwoman August 24, 2010, 9:56 pm

    Yes, you do need a vacation. Great post! you have done so much over the past few months!

  • Sarah @ Sarah's Shaping Up August 24, 2010, 10:24 pm

    i LOVE the great smokey mountains! my parents own two cabins in sevierville so we go pretty often! 🙂

  • Chelsey August 24, 2010, 10:33 pm

    You deserve it – have a great time.

    I was stressed for the last year of my life… seriously. I’m glad to say I’m not anymore – gotta love being married.

  • jess August 25, 2010, 12:17 am

    i stayed in the smokies for a week last summer too! love simple vacations like that

    btw, i saw a blurb abouut operation beautiful in fitness magazine today!! so happy for all your well deserved success 🙂

  • Jess August 25, 2010, 9:56 am

    Work has been absolutely insane lately. In addition to work, we’re remodeling our master bathroom and my grandfather just passed away. It’s been a nightmare two weeks. Luckily I get to leave for Paris, then London next Thursday!

  • Jean@RoastedRootsandPumpkinSpice August 25, 2010, 11:36 am

    I’ve been so stressed by my work. I would LOVE a vacation, which I’m taking in October (GET HERE FASTER!)

    My dream vacation spot would be an island in the Mediterranean or Australia. Beaches and warm weather <3

  • Ali @ Food, Fitness, Fashion August 25, 2010, 11:51 am

    I have been feeling super overwhelmed! Two days in the mountains sounds like a dream! ENJOY!

  • Cassie August 25, 2010, 1:44 pm

    Wow, you have been busy!!! I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed myself, but not with big events like you. Just keeping up with the day to day stuff can be more stressful than I’d like. It’s something for me to work on, though!

  • Marie August 25, 2010, 3:22 pm

    Dream vacation spot = Coast of Maine! Spectacular food, great weather, very cozy!

  • Jami August 25, 2010, 4:35 pm

    Camping in the desert. We found a spot in Roswell last year that is amazing and gorgeous and right next to running and hiking trails. Plus, the food in New Mexico is delicious!

  • Sasha August 25, 2010, 8:11 pm

    If you ever REALLY want to get away without internet try hiking up Mt LeConte and sleeping in one of their cabins, my hubby and I took that trip and loved it!

    http://www.leconte-lodge.com/

  • MelanieF August 26, 2010, 9:28 am

    We are leaving for Orlando (we are from Canada) in 9 days. We’ll be there for 2 weeks. So, yeah I cannot wait. It’s been a long year, and we both worked really hard and this summer has been really busy!

    Have a great vacation!

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