Cherished Memories

I always look forward to vacation with my squad. The hustle and bustle of everyday life sometimes gets in the way of true quality time and family bonding, so its nice to escape reality. Even if it's only for a week! While last year we treated ourselves with a trip to Aruba, this year we opted for a trip to Wildwood Crest, New Jersey. 3 hours from home, it is far enough to feel like a true vacation, yet close enough to avoid a long and hellish car ride. I forgot to mention I despise being in the car for too long. My husband drives like Mario Andretti, and his sudden stops are enough to make anyone car sick.

This year we stayed at the Port Royal in Wildwood Crest. We have been eyeing this hotel up for years and always said we wanted to try it out. We were very happy with our decision. The hotel was super clean and accommodating and we loved it's proximity to the beach. I forgot to mention that my kids aren't huge beach fans. I am assuming they may be among the very few who want nothing to do with it. Am I right? The minute the sand even slightly touched Mia's skin, the waterworks ensued. The first few days were touch and go, and we were definitely among the most hated families in the sand, but as the week progressed, both girls adapted and found ways to entertain themselves until they were allowed to go back to the pool! Despite the tears and threats, I was proud of them. At 9 and 6, they have matured and grown. It was much easier to reason with them now as opposed to past vacations. While I desperately miss the toddler years, it was an amazing feeling to finally be able to plop my butt down in the sand and relax!! I promise if you haven't reached this status yet, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Your time will come.

The Weather Gods were certainly on our side too. Normally we get at least 2 days of rain or chilly temperatures no matter where we travel to, but not on this vacation. It was hot and sunny every single day! In between the sun, the beach and the pool, we squeezed in a water park, some mini golf, the boardwalk, Cape May, Stone Harbor, and lots of ice cream.

Lastly, on our way home we made a pit stop to the Ocean City boardwalk. We truly love it there for its cleanliness and family oriented feel. We ate some lunch and picked up the newest members of our family: Dom and Bob the hermit crabs!!! Hey, they are much easier to care for then a dog right now!

I honestly think this may go down as one of my favorite vacations of all. It may not have been a glamorous trip to the Caribbean or Disney World, but it was just as good, if not better. We truly all got along and enjoyed our time together. We even attempted some new things too. Jim and I did body boarding (which we miserably failed at), while the girls frolicked in the ocean and tried new foods (such as clams and lobster). Even though most of it was left chewed up in a napkin, they get an A for effort.

I am glad I had this week to reflect, unwind, and reconnect with the most important people in my life. Every moment spent, every milestone achieved, and every memory made, makes me a stronger, determined, and happier mom and wife. I am so proud of this squad. They certainly make life worth living. Together is my favorite place to be.

I wish all of you a wonderful rest of summer. Take time to live in the moment with your own families and enjoy this quality time. Life is just way too fleeting not too.

"Every family has a story to tell, this is ours."