Because our summer officially started in July, we decided to hit the road and get on with summer vacationing already! After a mere 18 hours in the car (insert emoji for I’m-going-to-lose-my-mind), our trip began here in my hometown of Orlando, Florida. The week has been full of visiting family and friends. It’s always fun, yet crazy busy, when we’re back in town. Anyone who has moved from their hometown (where family & friends still live), understands the challenge of packing in quality time with loved ones + downtime for the kiddos + doing fun things. It’s a bit hectic. And, there’s never enough time to see everyone and do everything.
Because we are here in the summer, we aren’t visiting Disney or any of the theme parks. I realize now how much I took the parks for granted as a kid. We would go on field trips to Disney or Sea World and my sister and I spent countless afternoons park hopping throughout the year after school. We always had friends or family members who worked at the parks and we would get in for free. Now, I refuse to pay for the parks – they’re insanely expensive, HOT, and crowded! I’ve turned into an old grump. 🙂 My kids have never been to the Magic Kingdom and they’ve never asked to go, so I’m holding off as long as possible.
Last weekend, we did stay at a hotel in the Disney area with my parents, siblings and niece and nephew. The hotel had a lazy river and water slides which kept everyone entertained and worn out by the end of the day. We also celebrated my mom’s big birthday coming up in a couple of weeks which I was thankful to be here for. These are the big moments we often miss living far away. It was so nice to be here as a family to celebrate my momma and the best Nana of all time.
My sister and I took the girls to a little Princess Tea Party and I had to share a few of the photos here because I cannot even handle the cuteness! My girls were mesmerized and on a major sugar high when we left. This tea consisted of cupcakes and cookies and macaroons and all things sugary and sweet. A little girl’s dream…
Next up, we are heading to the shores of Lake Michigan. Being a Florida girl, I had never considered the beaches of Michigan for a summer vacation yet I’ve recently been enamored by photos of what looks to be a magical place and I cannot wait to visit and unwind by the water’s edge.
Have a wonderful weekend, friends!
We spend every summer on the beaches in Michigan – you will love it! Have a great trip!
It was beautiful! We will most definitely be back!!