My husband’s bitter ex-wife loves to disrupt our peace. I planned a weekend getaway, just the two of us. Bags packed,

doorbell rang—she dropped off her kids without warning and disappeared. I felt furious and robbed of our special time.

For a moment, I stared at the luggage, ready to give up. Then I thought, Why let her win?

I called a trusted neighborhood babysitter the kids adored. Within minutes, she arrived, excited

for the weekend ahead. Instead of canceling, my husband and I headed to a cozy cabin a friend had long offered us.

While his ex believed she’d ruined our plans, we were under the stars that night, roasting marshmallows,

laughing, and reconnecting like teenagers. The kids, meanwhile, enjoyed pizza, games, and movies with someone they loved.

By Sunday, we returned refreshed. The sitter was grateful, the kids were happy, and we had treasured memories that couldn’t be spoiled.

She thought she’d trapped us—but her scheme only gave us an even sweeter escape.

I realized peace doesn’t come from avoiding trouble. It comes from choosing joy, even when others try to steal it.