Linda’s blog: Simple is best

Like many people with school age children we’ve just returned from our summer holiday.  In the past we’ve always stayed in England and saved a break abroad for October half term but this year we decided to have a summer holiday in Europe. 

Before we had children I had introduced my husband to the small town in Portugal that I’d visited with my parents as a child. Partly for ease, and partly in tribute to my dad who died last year, we decided to return. 

The offering was simple: a cool (that’s cold, not trendy!) townhouse with a shared pool and the beach, shops and restaurants a short walk away. It was hot in England before we left and we dreamt of walking on cold marble floors, dark shuttered rooms and a shady balcony where we could enjoy the morning and evening breeze.  

When people asked about our plans, they fell into two camps. Some questioned what we’d be doing and why we were returning to a place we’d been to before when the world is so big. The inference (or open comment!) was that this was a boring and uninspired choice. They made me feel embarrassed as I justified my choice. But others completely got it. They understood the desire for a simple and undemanding break away from the daily routine. These were the people whose normal life looks like ours: a carefully scheduled juggle between busy jobs, children and aged relatives which leaves little time for ourselves or each other. 

I was slightly worried that my memories were rose tinted but I needn’t have been concerned. We immediately fell into a peaceful routine: breakfast on the balcony, then pool or beach and a siesta (what a joy to lie down in the middle of the day!) before heading out for something to eat. We whiled away the days, the children finding as much happiness in books and swimming as we did.  It was a winning formula and just what we needed. 

I don’t know if we’ll repeat the format next year but for now I am delighted to boldly say “I did nothing and it was wonderful!” Sometimes simple is best.  

Linda is a lawyer who has two children aged 11 and 7. She and her husband work full time and juggle the school run and everything else between them.

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• Families