Happy 4th of July!

This weekend, my family and I are leaving for vacation. But not just any vacation. This will be a family bonanza to celebrate my parents’ 50^th Wedding Anniversary. Yeah…50! That’s a big deal in my book. My siblings and I and our spouses have rented a pretty giant house on Chesapeake Bay in Maryland for the week. There will be 22 of us, including 12 grandchildren. From what I can tell from the pictures and descriptions on-line, the area is beautiful. It has water, a quaint little town, and plenty of room for the kids to run around. What could be better? It’ll be fun to catch up with my family and all the kids—crazy maybe, but fun for sure!

While I’m away I’ll do some reading and hopefully some writing too. The water always inspires me, and with such a breathtaking view, I’m sure I’ll get some great story ideas. Besides that though, I think I’ll try some journal writing. I’ve never been a journal writer. I’m not sure why. But this week I’m going to give it try. I’m planning to keep a written account of all our adventures-from kayaking in the Bay (which I’ve never done) to relaxing by the pool (which I don’t get to do often) to sunrise yoga (led by my 16 year old daughter) to roasting marshmallows over the fire pit, to a whole bunch of celebrating with my parents!

I may have to record my thoughts bullet point style. I mean really…with 12 kids running around and 9 other adults to catch up with, that may be all I’m capable of! I’m determined to do it though. Far too many vacations have come and gone. After awhile they all blend into each other and I don’t want to forget a second of this one. It’s been a long time since we’ve all spent a week together like this. It’s going to be amazing! And that’s why I need my journal. I’ll write as much down as I can and maybe by the end of the week I’ll even have a story idea or two to use in the future.

So I’m off to finish the job of packing for myself and overseeing the packing of two teenagers. My husband will have to fend for himself. He’s not that picky anyway. As long as he has his bike and running sneakers, he’ll be happy!

Next week I’ll let you know how the trip is going…if I can break away from the sunshine and water long enough! Until then, Happy 4th of July! I hope you have your own wonderful celebration too. Just don’t forget to write about it in your journal. You never know what great story idea will come from it!