I’ve never been a huge believer in New Year’s resolutions. However, after taking on one of the busiest, most eventful years in 2016, I’m feeling inspired to make some positive changes moving forward in the new year. At the top of my list is a commitment to make more time for myself. It can be so hard to pull away from the day to day grind. As a small business owner, the clock never seems to stop. So whether it’ll be sneaking my toddler out of pre-school for a little daytime adventure, going on a midweek lunch date with my husband or treating myself with a friend, I’m ready to play hooky every so often come 2017. Just last week, with the help of American Express, I was able to get a taste of that much needed pause by spending an idyllic afternoon in Napa Valley at the Quintessa Estate. To celebrate 25 years of the Membership Rewards program, American Express debuted it’s 25th Anniversary Collection this year, with an impressive collection of gifts and exclusive travel experiences to choose from using Membership Rewards points. Our private tour of Quintessa included a behind the scenes tour of the wine making facilities and a tasting of current releases and barrel samples from a stunning hilltop pavilion overlooking the property’s vineyards. It was perfect. And honestly, there’s never a bad time to visit wine country – even in the winter, when the grapes have already been harvested, the splendor is omnipresent. The best part is, I came home feeling awakened, inspired and happy. I’ll be seeing more of you, Napa!

(this post was created in partnership with American Express; all opinions are my own)