Beach Vacation
I’m embarrassed to admit that our kids, ages 5 and 6, had never been to the beach. Time and money have always been a little tight, and we just never got around to it. But this year, Travis and I decided we would surprise the kids with a trip to the beach.
We researched and planned a few weeks ahead of the trip but didn’t mention it to the kids at all. The morning of the trip, we woke the kids up and told them to get dressed and go to the bathroom. The kids had many guesses, but the destination remained a secret. We stopped only to pick up Dunkin Donuts and once to go potty. As soon as we pulled up to the beach the kids were beaming with excitement.
Early Bird "Catches" the Waves
We were too early to check in, but our hotel allowed us to park in the parking lot and change in their restroom. We had pre-packed our lunches and headed the block and a half to the ocean.
The joy and wonder and excitement were what dreams are made of. At least these Winey Parents’ dreams! We set up our umbrella and blankets and immediately hit the waves. It was quite an adjustment for the kids, and they may have gotten pummeled a few times, but they got right up again. Watching them maneuver their way in the ocean was like watching tiny little drunks maneuvering their way out of a bar! One woman was watching us and just laughing so hard at their struggle. She commented that she had so much fun watching them, and I have to admit, so did I!
After a little time getting pummeled, we stopped for lunch (and ate some sand), and then the kids buried themselves in the sand and attempted sandcastles. Then of course, we went back into the water. At this point, we discovered Marshall was carrying an extra 10 pounds worth of sand and we struggled to empty his pants while keeping him covered. Ahhh…. sand, my nemesis, didn’t bother them one bit!
Worth All of Those Memories
Day 2 was much them same. Waves, sand, lunch, sand, waves. We got to the beach around 8:00 in the morning and left around 1:30. I’m grateful we left when we did, because shortly after we cleaned up and ventured out for ice cream, we got caught in a nasty thunderstorm that resulted in a flash flood. I’m just glad we weren’t on the beach for that!
Our final day included some mini golf. If you’ve ever played mini golf with small people, you know you have to pack your patience! We eventually got through the course, and the kids seemed to enjoy it, despite the heat. We were definitely ready for an early lunch and to get on the road home.
Travis and I are so glad that we finally took the time and money to take the kids to the beach. We tried to save money by packing breakfast and lunch each day. We also packed our own adult beverages, so there were minimal expenses while we were there. It was definitely worth the trip. If you are contemplating a trip with your family, don’t wait anymore! We all felt refreshed and relaxed after the trip and we know we made memories that our kids will cherish for many years to come.
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