Going on Holiday With Children—Is This Really Vacation?

I've been waiting a year for summer. Yes, I love Christmas and the smell of pine trees, playing in the snow, and opening presents, but I miss the warmth of the sun. The long winter nights, warm clothes, and the cold quickly tire me. I adore the sea, with its infinity and I dream of its cool, but tender embrace. The soothing sounds of the waves hitting the shore, the seagulls squabbling with the unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.

Starting in early May, I begin making plans for my summer holiday. I spend long hours on the internet looking for a suitable vacation spot. If for someone this seems like a tedious task, for me it is a pleasure—I am more than happy to read the reviews of vacation spots, even if they seem long and boring.

Since I became a mother, my choice for a summer destination by the water is slightly different. First, I choose a nearby resort, so that I can hear  "Mom, are we there yet?" less often. I also tend to stop at a hotel close to the beach because someone has forgotten their favorite toy.

There was a time in my life when I prepared my luggage  with excitement from an upcoming trip. Nowadays, when I have to think of two more kids, the prospect of packing is much more daunting. Clothes, toys, and medicine—packing for my kids makes it seems like we're going to another planet where there are no shops. And this is all because I fear that if I forget something, I'm going to disappoint someone and fail like a mother.

When it comes to finally leaving for vacation, I am prepared with some hand luggage with food and clothes, if someone's hungry or cold. When we arrive, my entire family is content. Especially if the kids take a nap in the car, it makes the entire trip up seem short.

Stepping on the beach makes me feel truly happy, even though I carry a few bags with me. I start with spreadable sunscreen lotions and I manage to steal some time for myself. I enjoy the sea, the sun, and the tranquility I am afforded. My privacy quickly ends, because I have to dry the children and give them water (even though they have taken in mouthfuls of seawater). Games begin on the sand and in the sea, in which I participate, it is fun and there is an abundance of laughter and yelling. Every day is repeated like this. The whole vacation revolves around making sure the children are having fun and being cared for. I am glad that the sea gives me the strength,  mood, reassurance, and inspiration to be the best mother I can be.

We go home loaded with energy, but tired, especially us as parents. It's wonderful and fun, but somehow we don't get a break. Maybe when you become a parent, it changes, among other things, the vacation that becomes crazy, fun, but tiring.

Do not worry, it will happen to you! It is not scary, but rather it’s interesting and full of very positive emotions that make you go back to your childhood. Holidays with children can be fun, leaving the madness behind at home.