Vacation Time for M.O.M. and the Lil Ones

Last Thursday I loaded up the car and the 4 youngest kiddos and we headed for Northern California. I was nervous about how the kids would do driving for 10 hours with no real breaks (however,they made sure we saw many a restroom along the way), but honestly, they did great. There were only a couple of patches of time where they did the classic, “are we there yet?” or “how much longer until we get there?”. When we got to town we went straight into “fun” mode. The kids went swimming, we had a nice dinner with the friends we’re staying with and then took everyone on an after-dinner bike ride/jog. Since day 1, we’ve kept up a steady stream of visiting with friends and family and playing in the water.

jousting!

playing in the creek in a beautiful park

a picnic lunch with Gramma and Papa

kiddos getting ready to do a little rafting on the Truckee River

wading out in Tahoe

Morning guitar time

Visiting with my sister in Sacramento

So far, we’ve had a great visit! I must admit that I’m pretty worn out, though. I’m missing all my extra hands who help me with the lil ones at home. I’m not used to being the sole caretaker 24 hrs a day. I DO remember that there was a time when my older kids were all little that I did this job, round-the-clock, without the helping hands of older kids, but it’s been a LONG time since those days. So, I’m hoping that my older kids are enjoying a little break from having to give a younger sibling a bath or make them a sandwich or keep them entertained outside. When we get back I will be sure to let them know how much I appreciate their help.

I also miss the morning routine of the 6am Kraze Boot Camp classes. Really! Aaron sent me a routine to keep me from doing nothing on this trip and Jen is keeping me honest about getting up and exercising, but I’m realizing that I really DO need the energy of the group setting and the solid routine that I had going. It’s hard to decide to put on my workout clothes when it’s just me and Jen. But…difficult or not, we’re doing it!

So, it’s the start of another day of visiting with friends and family and enjoying some water play. Today I’m taking Jen to lunch for her bday and the kiddos are going to visit with one of my sisters and my mom. Then it’s off to a friend’s pool and then dinner at my Aunt and Uncle’s. I’m glad I braved the drive and made the decision to take this trip!

Doing the Dance of the Children with Friends and Family in Northern California~

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