When the Beach Calls

“Woo hoo, summer is here!”

For our family that means less-hectic mornings, kids’ sports, art, and horse camps, Vacation Bible Schools, pool visits, and a trip to “the beach.” However, for the first time ever, this year I had the opportunity to take a “Mom-only” beach getaway with my mom, aunt, and cousin. It was fan-tastic!

Who knew that the beach could be a calm, peaceful experience? Mornings could involve cups of coffee sipped from the balcony while gazing out over a peaceful, morning sea. Beach time could mean a good book, multiple back issues of People, US, and Real Simple magazines, and sitting in one place for more than 5 consecutive minutes. My arms could be filled with one towel, a single water bottle, and MY hat…?!

Panic attack strikes. Wait – did I forget the beach chairs and oversized umbrella? Shoot, I must have left the other towels in the condo. Where did I put those beach toys… you know the sand shovel and pail and boogie board? Where is the cooler with our juice boxes and snacks?! Ok, deep breath…refocus and remember, it’s just you. You did not leave a kid in the room. They really are safe at home.

Back to reality…Evenings are spent enjoying a restaurant of MY choosing. I was able to watch a movie of MY choice. I listened to MY music (had forgotten what I liked in fact). Seriously, where have “I” been for the past 11 years?

This trip opened my eyes, as I now view “the beach” in an entirely different light. I have been to the other side, and I’m not sure I’ll ever truly be the same again. Please don’t get me wrong; I love going with my three kids and hubby…and even other families (trip planned for end of July in fact). But this experience is now etched in my memory.

Day 1: Disbelief (“What have I been missing?”)

Day 2: Appreciation for the beauty surrounding me (white sand, gorgeous sunsets, clear water)

Day 3: All magazines read and starting to get a little sandy and pages curled from ocean water

Day 4: Nanny sends an amazing video of my kids taken while I’ve been gone. Ok, made me cry…wasn’t her intention, but I went there. Still a Mommy, geez…

Day 5: Home-bound with gifts galore for my kids and huge thanks for my hubby

Pulling into the driveway, I’m immediately spot a hand-made banner draped from the front porch entrance of our home. “Welcome Home, Mom!” it declares. Refreshed and re-energized, I’m now ready to embrace my family with a renewed appreciation and spirit. [But I’m already planning my next beach
escape… shhh… :)]