But this year we have pledged to have some fun. And fun we did have this last week. We packed our minivan (I still feel like I want to cough and say that under my breath), and headed up north to scenic Refugio State Beach which is just north of Santa Barbara.
Now, it must be made clear that I’m not a camping type of girl. I have no hesitation in admitting that I prefer spas and room service to campfires and roasting marshmallows. But let’s be real, with 3 rambunctious boys in tow, how Zen would I get at a luxurious hotel and spa?
So Kevin bribed me by renting a RV and off we went. Despite my initial reluctance, I must confess that this is one of the best trips we’ve ever been on as a family. Although we only had one day of sunshine, the kids didn’t mind. They splashed, swam, boogie boarded, kayaked, and dug to China.
But that’s not all. We hiked and took a day trip to Solvang. Although the kids could care less for the “cute” factor, they appreciated the ice cream, candy store, and shaved ice. Who says bribery doesn’t work?
The best part of our Solvang trip was on our way back to the campsite. As we passed by the shimmering golden hills spotted with old oak trees, we spotted a sign for blueberry picking. We played a game of “should we-should we not” for a moment and then Kevin quickly made a U-turn for the decision was made. I love unexpected excursions.
And back at camp, the kids played games, crafted, rode bikes, colored, and endlessly giggled.
Yeah, the kids still fought, little ones still got daily ouchies, and the time out chair was occupied more than once, but that’s life. In the big scheme of things it was the simplicity of the trip that made it so exceptional.
I may just be a camping girl after all.
8 comments:
How fun!!! You know we have a blueberry picking place in Temecula? Temecula Blueberry Company!!!
Glad you enjoyed yourself!
Sounds like a wonderful trip. And you make it sound so easy. I keep telling Brad I'm willing to go camping with his sister & family (even though I'm not a camping girl either) but you showed me it can enjoyed.
PS, I LOVE all the photos too.
that sounds so fun! i remember camping with you guys at refugio state beach in a life long ago . . . . was there sticky tar there this time? i love that place. i think i might need to convince seth for us to top in solvang on our next trip down there . . . so cute! the photos are cute too!
What a great trip Katie!! Love the photos and yes, RV camping is rough enough for me!!!
I never camped as a kid but the few times I did as an adult were pretty awesome. You did it right. No towing, just get there and fill the RV with food. The boys will remember that trip for a lifetime. You are a good mom!
Leah,
We had one day of tar and had to use baby oil to remove it. Other than that day, it was fine...yuck, though! : ) It was so much fun. I'm sure Levi would enjoy Solvang, too.
Love the Pictures! So much SAND!!! brave girl!
I'm so glad you had a nice time. I suffered through my withdrawal nicely :)
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