The Family Vacation

Summertime is upon us already! The sun is shining and we are all looking forward to summertime activities, swimming, running through the sprinkles, BBQ's and ice cream outings are always favorites. But there is one summertime activity that always makes me crazy. The family vacation. Of course we look forward all year to a little get away. As the excitement builds so does the need for organization. Sort of like the Spring not-so-much-of-a Break, Mom duties intensify and down time dwindles. Wheather you're headed to Grandma's, camping or making the childhood pilgrimage to Disney World you can expect chaos. While it's so super dooper fun for you kids, it's a lot of work for us.

Traveling with kids takes planning. Gone are the days of throwing a bikini and flip flops in a bag and hitting the open road. As a Mom, we have to pack for every possible outcome. Will it rain? Better grab rain coats. Going to swim? Don't forget the sunscreen, towels and life jackets. Thinking about hiking? Make sure you have the proper shoes, stroller or carrier and bandaids for the inevitable blister. If you're flying you might wonder is it actually possible to pack an entire toy chest in an airline approved carry on bag? Of course this list doesn't even cover extra clothes, snacks, lovey's and diapers! Phew... I'm tired already!

Once you arrive, you're going to have to address another slew of issues. Hotel rooms are small, and NOT child friendly. Ever. Grandma's house is a bit easier, (she at least TRIES to make it safe) and popping up a tent while the kids explore isn't too bad either. But be warned, as soon as you arrive, no matter how tired you are, the children will be bouncing off the walls! And so begins the long days of grueling back to back to back on the go activities. The kids who are still splashing in the water park at dusk belong to smart parents who realize that if they are not dead on their feet before going back to the room, no one is going to get any rest. Routines go out the window and my kids always get a case of the "we're in public so whacha really gonna do to me if I don't listen" attitude. Don't get me started on sugar highs and junk food overloads.

No matter what craziness ensues, every vacation has those special moments that make it all worth it. The face of a little girl who meets Cinderella ( OMG *squeal* She's sooooo pretty Mom)! Catching their first fish! Roasting marshmallows, or hearing your Mom tell your kids the same story she told you before bed. Best of all is listening the sound of sweet little sighs as they drift off to sleep knowing today was the best day Of. Their. Lives. So while you dread dragging back a week's worth of laundry and can't wait to sleep in you own bed, they will never forget these defining experiences of their childhood. When it comes to the family vacation, pack for the worst and relax. This is supposed to be fun... remember?