Life in our householdis a blend of daily responsibilities mixed with plenty of warm companionship. Like most families, we try to take a vacation together once a year. We truly enjoy each others' company, so the added bonus of hanging out together without interruption is appreciated by all. Unfortunately, Sid was unable to join us this time around due to his work schedule; however, we are already making plans to take him, Kitty, her boyfriend and new baby with us next year.
Vacations are a special event around our home. Weeks before, hours of research go into finding just the right location. Marieis particularly skilled at finding great deals that fit our family budget; this year she found us a lovely condo right on the beach, with a gorgeous view of the marina right outside our window. Charles stayed up literally all night prior to departure day, creating a fresh music playlist of over 50 songs. As the family's Master Entertainer, this is one of his specialties; he delights in turning this project into a labor of love, bringing us fresh, new music while including remixes of old favorites for each of us. This playlist is an important part of our trip; the music starts as soon as we pull out of our driveway and plays during the entire car ride, while we sing along to the soundtrack. Along the way, as we listened to a particularly beautiful melody, it started raining quite heavily. I've included it, below. Everyone loves it, but the overall effect was quite a treat to Charles and I, who happen to adore rain and thunderstorms.
Once we arrived, we unpacked and eagerly set out to explore our surroundings, a favorite being the pier at the marina. Not only did we enjoy a few evening strolls during our stay, but waking up each morning to see the sunrise dancing across the water and docked boats was a magical sight. We also discovered a small convenience store on the premises which supplied us with all the necessary staples. Kaz loved having the convenience of purchasing his favorite snack, and being a candy lover myself, I must admit that I enjoyed it as well!
The Bay
The first night of our stay we were truly kids at heart, staying up till the wee hours of the morning. With our vacation music playing in the background, we had a blast playing with remote control helicopters andorbit light toys, courtesy of Charles. The next morning we received a special wake up call....Marie had planned to surprise us with a lavish breakfast (pancakes, eggs and bacon) while everyone else slept in. Unfortunately, due to a tiny corner of burnt bacon, we not only arose to the delicious aroma, but the shrill sounds of the fire alarm going off! After the initial shock and frantic moments of trying to remove the alarm's battery, we all had a good laugh over the experience. As we finally sat down to enjoy Marie's cooking, we gave her a bit of good-natured teasing, but also showered her with plenty of gratitude for being such a sweetheart. Although we didn't experience terribly hot weather during our stay, the days that followed were filled with plenty of sunshine and joy. Marie and I visited the on-site pool with Kaz, giggling hysterically as we splashed about in the rather cool water. We also visited a local beach and had a similar experience, laughing through chattering teeth as we braved the chilly tide. We didn't let that dampen our spirits; Marie and Kaz tossed a football back and forth in the water, and when Charles decided he'd had enough of the icy lake, he and I flew miniature kites together. All of us were having such a good time we stayed until dusk, and were rewarded with a lovely sunset.
Beautiful Evening
When the weather turned rainy one afternoon, we sought out a local laser tag/video game arcade, discovering we had the entire place to ourselves! Charles and Kaz played an 1-on-1 game of laser tag, while Marie and I enjoyed several games of virtual bowling. We felt right at home thanks to the friendly employees, and left their establishment with smiles all around.
Our favorite experience though, was what we refer to as 'Boating Day'. Armed with life jackets and a snack cooler, we rented a powerboat for a couple of hours. This was a new experience for our family but we quickly discovered we took to it like 'ducks to water'. Charles and I took turns driving, enthralled with the sun and wind as we sped carefully around the lake, pulling Marie and Kaz behind us on a large water raft. They had big grins on their faces the entire time. Although I was quite nervous, I took a turn on the raft with Marie, who kept assuring me it was great fun and I would be just fine. I'm glad I took the opportunity to try the experience; however, I very quickly decided I preferred driving! She, however, not only adored the tubing experience, but attempted to water ski as well. Loving her as we do, it was a pleasure for Charles and I to witness her exuberant joy - the smile never left her face! Another treat was to hear Kaz remark that he would remember this day for the rest of his life! Not only an absolutely enchanting day, but a beautiful way to bond as a family.
If You're Fond of Sand Dunes
We had so much fun on the water during our trip, that the weekend following our return home, Marie and I sought out a local state park marina - renting a wave runner and adding yet another new adventure to our repertoire of fun. Plans are in the works to share this activity with the boys - we are confident they will enjoy it as much as we did.
As I've stated on more than one occasion - my life is ridiculously awesome. While I am ever cognizant that not everyone enjoys such a peaceful home life, I am grateful to have such wonderful life-partners as Charles and Marie. Working together with them through our share of tough spots has resulted in sincere appreciation for the many wonderful memories we've created together over the years. I am deeply appreciative that I literally stumbled onto a such a treasure at this time in my life.
Those who disapprove of my poly lifestyle tell me the Dashings are not my family. Since they consistently refuse to accept our open invitation to witness it firsthand, they are unaware that their ignorance is far removed from actual truth. Frankly, there is no need to defend the obvious - our shared history and bonding experiences - the tender expressions on our faces, the swelling of our hearts when we witness each others' joy - these are all proof enough. I had a terrific vacation with my family! Rika "Never apologize for love." -Tivi
LOV - August, Sunset
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