Unplugged

Tonight my family and I are leaving for a much needed long weekend away.  We’re headed to Martha’s Vineyard with my brother, his girlfriend and my parents.  I look forward to this trip every year.  Waking up to the smell of coffee brewing in the kitchen as C and my dad get ready for an early morning fishing excursion while my mom and I hang back for a quiet morning with the little ones.  Hearty breakfasts followed by the long walk down to the beach where L.A. will splash in the water and I’ll undoubtedly spend the day trying to prevent P2 from eating sand.  Afternoons spent lounging on the deck while the wind blows an island breeze through the tall trees, and I try to read a book but instead get distracted by the sound of laughter as my dad chases L.A. around the yard.

Eventually we’ll cook a big dinner and sit down around the kitchen table together, talking and laughing about the day.  The boys will get bathed and put to bed in our room, which gets the most amazing cool breeze at night.  After they’re sleeping soundly, we’ll gather in the living room and play silly board games or sit outside with a cold beer in hand – all just enjoying each other’s company.  I’m planning to sneak off one night and join the small gathering of people who come to enjoy the beautiful sunset out by the lighthouse.  It’s an amazing experience, some people bring a picnic, couples hold hands, and then there are the ones like me – who come armed with a big camera to capture the grace of those last few seconds before the sun dips into the ocean.  I can already smell the salty air.

While we’re there, I will be completely unplugged.  I’m not bringing my computer, and though I’ll have my iPhone, I will be responding to all emails and inquiries on Tuesday July 6th.

Also, as a quick update – I only have 2 weekend mornings available until September, so if you are interested in having family photos or pictures of your little ones, contact me as they’re sure to go quickly.  Those dates are July 24th and August 7th.

Have a happy and safe Fourth of July – enjoy your family, that’s what we’ll be doing!