The Beach

We just returned from the beach last week. It was a fun getaway for all. A much needed getaway too. It rained two of the three full days that we were there - but just being at the beach in rain or sun makes you feel better. I rode with my sister and her two kids - wow was that an adventure for someone who is used to seeing the kids a few hours on the weekend in a house where they can run and play to being strapped in seats they hate for five hours in a car - tears, pulling arms out of the seat belts, throwing toys in the floor, wanting to change the movie a million times, asking - "when will we be there", etc. It was interesting for me needless to say. I am not used to hauling kids around, wiping noses, mouths and butts. Parenting is defintely a hard job. It makes me admire my sister (as a single mom) and her dedication and love for the kids. Don't get me wrong - I love them with all my heart - but if you aren't used to it - the patience can wear a little thin. But, seeing the excitement on their faces and watching them play in the sand and with their cousins was a wonderful thing to see. We went with my step-mom's family. Her brother and his wife have a five year old and a three year old. So, combine a one year old and a four year with that - madness was all around. But, fun was had by all. Brandon cannot wait to go back (we are already counting how many blanket days he has until its time to return) - he would live there if he could. He loves, loves the beach. Ella liked it too. It was her first real trip to enjoy. She loved playing in the sand and loves the water. So, its time to count the weeks - only six blanket days before we head back!! Now the question I know you are asking is - "Gina will you ride with Tracy and the kids again?"...yeah probably - this is preparation time for when I will take my own kids (hopefully) one day on long road trips to the beach!