Vacations

I had the most wonderful weekend with Kat.  For the first time in 2.5 years, we were able to go out of town, alone, for a weekend.  We had an amazing time.  We went to Tillamook and drove up and down the Oregon coast.  Kat hadn't be south of Tillamook before so we went to Lincoln City and Depot Bay. 

One of the things I noticed, I went and bough snacks for the road...chips and Nutter Butters.  I also bought some Brie and Baguette for a snack.  Since we were leaving at dinner time and needed to get on the road we ate....ready for it...McDonald's.  The hotel we stayed in had a nice continental breakfast; had eggs, potatoes, and a small muffin.  Then for lunch and dinner we ate out.  Lunch was French Onion soup and half a French dip w/ Horseradish.  Dinner was 3 of the most amazing Strawberry Blintzes.

I did forget to mention the chocolates that were waiting for us our first night at the hotel.  Then we had Brie and Baguette the next night.  Then there was the burger and fries at Camp 18. So, not the best eating wise.  I was aware of what I was putting in my mouth, but found myself saying, I'm on vacation so I'm not going to worry about it.

What is it about vacations that allows us to eat this way. I've found road trip is equivalent with junk food.  We load up on chips and candy and soda for the road.  While on vacation, many people eat out, but do they pay attention to what they eat?  I know I am wanting to relax and not pay attention at all.  Of course, the 1.6 lbs I put on is the consequence of the eating blindly. 

Do I want my girls to equate road trip with junk food?  Many people will say, that's half the fun, getting to eat anything you want.  Does it have to be?  I know that I work so hard that when I am on vacation to relax, I don't want to have to be mindful of anything but enjoying my time.  Keeping track of what I am eating and how it is effecting me isn't relaxing or enjoyable.   How can I make road trip food fun and healthy?

I am hoping over the next 10 years to take many road trips w/ Kat and our family.  I don't want junk food to be a integral part of it.  Any ideas will be welcomed and put to use :)

I have returned relaxed and fresh.  All 4 of us are tired from the changes in schedule over the weekend, but we all had fun.  The twins stayed with a babysitter that did all sorts of fun things with them.  It was a great weekend had by all.

I am looking forward to many more road trips and time with the ones that I love!  It is the love for and from my family that is rejuvenating for me.  The thought of spending time together exploring new places and new experiences is at the top of my bucket list.  These times will not come again, so I am going to enjoy every minute if it (with and without the kids!)