We spent a long weekend in Connecticut after being off from work all last week. Now we return to reality tomorrow and I don’t like reality very much. Actually that’s not true, I feel ready to conquer the world and do some big things in the near future. But that could be the vacation vibe talking. But who cares, right? Enjoy that feeling while it still lasts, right?
Before I jump back into spreadsheets and conference calls and holistic synergies, here are some pics from the weekend.
Time spent at the family retreat at Cedar Lake in Chester, CT always does the soul well.
I have a lot of fears in the water (thanks Mom) and thankfully my daughter didn’t inherit those genes. She jumped right in the kayak and took off around the lake. Deep breaths and a few beers got me through it.
My wife and I were graciously granted a lunch date by our host and hostess. Before they could say “enjoy”, we were at the Madison Beach Hotel restaurant, a luxurious hotel housed right on the Long Island Sound.
Of course oysters …
Followed by beach selfies with my one and only.
On our way to the beach at Watch Hill, RI we stopped at a legendary italian ice joint, Vecchittos Italian Ice in Middletown, CT. Beyond delish and easily the best I’ve ever had.
When in Watch Hill, RI one must pose for pics near the Ocean House. I wrote about this grand hotel a few years ago (you can read it here) and we are still in awe each time we see it.
Once on the public beach in Watch Hill, the kids attacked the ocean and stayed in for hours, no exaggeration.
I could go on and on about how well we were treated by all family this weekend, but you don’t know them and I need to protect their identity so only WE can enjoy it for years to come. Just know I ate Belgian Waffles for three mornings straight and never wanted for a single beverage.
And last but not least, the return to the garden. Always a consolation prize after returning from vacation.
Still plenty of blooms …
… but it is clear that the grasses have announced their arrival. It is their time to take center stage. Expect them dominate on this blog for weeks to come.
QOTD – have you ever dreamed up a big idea or made a life change decision while on vacation? If so, would you be so kind as to share the experience? I think I’ve got one but it will be a secret until it comes to fruition.
I’ve never been a big thinker or dreamer…just a day to day person who has enjoyed some life surprises along the way.
That is my way too Michaele until traveling and then I get all these big ideas that seem feasible only to return to reality. Oh well.
Absolutely! Travel/holidays are the time for epiphanies and big changes for me. Seeing your life from a distance is a useful way to get an overview of it, and having daydream time is a great way to come up with new things to put into it. I came home from a big overseas trip and found that I had decided to leave journalism and enrol in a Master of Environment so I could study sustainable food systems. I don’t really remember making the decision, but it has turned out brilliantly! I think you’re always having to settle back into your groove when you return from holidays anyway, so it’s kind of like life is already half upside down and you may as well turn it completely upside down and start building something new that excites you.
Jen – I’m now back into the “groove” post vacation and I want vacation John back. He has big ideas and plans and doesn’t care about routine. Time for more vacation.
I need to use your story as motivation, how cool and inspiring. Thanks for sharing it!