A Family Vacation

Caitlin and Mama hiking on a trail that overlooked the ocean in Acadia National Park

Matt, Caitlin, and Bella on the summit of Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park

Last week our family, dog and all, enjoyed our first true family vacation. We spent a week at my mom's home in Stockton Springs, Maine-a beautiful former shipping hub on the Penobscott Bay. Maine is gorgeous during the summer and the weather during our vacation was spectacular-especially since we avoided a sweltering heat wave back in Boston. We enjoyed cool mornings, sun-filled days, breezy afternoons, and brilliant sunsets every day. Caitlin loved swimming in the pool, exploring new crawling territory, and hiking outdoors in her Ergo baby carrier (at least some of the time). While most of our time was spent relaxing at home or by the pool and eating ice cream, we took some day trips to Belfast and spent a day hiking in Acadia National Park.

Our vacation was truly a much needed break. In Maine, there is quiet. We do not have television and our cell phones barely have reception. In Maine, there is rest. We did not feel burdened by the drudgery of household chores and endless errands. We did not have unfinished home improvement projects beckoning. While at home, it seems like we have to schedule family togetherness. During our week in Maine, we took pleasure in simple times together. I think we found a new family tradition.