Girlfriend getaways are "hot" this summer and anytime of the year! From pajama parties to spa retreats, women are feeling less guilty about leaving their baggage, their husbands/partners, and their children at home for a getaway with "the girls."

In fact, a recent AAA travel report showed that girlfriend getaways are a $66 billion industry.

And, guess what? These getaways are also good for our health!

Psychologist and Author, Dr. John Gray (Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus) says, "Something physiological happens when women get away and bond. Women tend to nurture each other."

Yes, I know, lame. We already know that. But, it's a fact. When we get together, we release "happy" hormones.

So, gather your girlfriends from near and far.

If your budget is tight, don't fret. Work the problem! Maybe you and your girlfriends can plan a weekend in the Old Market and stay at a hotel downtown.

Kansas City is do-able for a long weekend too. And, plan a trip to Chicago. You can get great deals on airfare, if you plan ahead.

Even an overnight pajama party (we used to call them slumber parties as kids) can be a blast! Order in a pizza and open up a bottle of wine!

Speaking of wine, my sister-in-law Judy has organized a girlfriend getaway later this summer to Napa! Yes, I'm going along on this one! Judy is a "planner and organizer." Someone has to do it!

If you need tips on planning, get a copy of The Official Girlfriends Getaway Guide, by Renie Cavallari.

As women, we do so much for others day in and day out. Give yourself permission to do something for yourself. So here's an holla to all girlfriends. Lets get this party started!

Psst, if you have a fun idea or have been on a girlfriend getaway, share your story with us.