This summer, my husband and I decided to take a break from work and embark on a week-long staycation right here in our own backyard. It turned out to be an unforgettable adventure filled with local attractions, quality family time, and plenty of laughter.
Monday: Exploring the Wild at Philly Zoo
We kicked off our staycation with a visit to the Philly Zoo, where the highlight for our kids was the strong rhino and longhorn cattle. Our daughter was over the moon seeing her favorite animals from storybooks come to life, especially the giraffe reaching for leaves with its long tongue.
Tuesday: A Taste of Lancaster Central Market
Early morning found us at Lancaster Central Market, indulging in delicious donuts, fresh bread, and Oola bowls. We savored our breakfast outdoors while enjoying live music, then wandered around local shops and admired a vibrant new mural.
After naptime, we set up a painting station for the kids, which turned into a colorful burst of giggles and creativity, complete with neon paints and canvas chaos. It quickly turned into a giggle fit of fun and a lot of painted bodies. After all the paint ran out, the kiddos cleaned up in the hose and the kiddie pool. We then went out to dinner as our daughter's favorite thing to do is "eat at a restaurant." We used a gift card we had lying around and enjoyed some grilled cheese and fries.
Wednesday: Dutch Wonderland - Where Magic Happens
Packing up excitement, we headed to Dutch Wonderland, a place dripping with nostalgia for both my husband and me. I visited DW many times as a kid before I began working there in college. My husband started working there at 14 and worked his way up to lead supervisor. It was there that we met, became friends, and eventually fell in love. It's so much fun for us to be back and bring our children along. We rode the teacups, the train, the carousel, and more. Enjoyed the Frog Prince dive show (which coincidentally is exactly the same as it was 10 years ago when we worked there). After lunch, we headed to the water park where we enjoyed splashing and sliding and jumping in all the waterworks. On our way home we stopped at Isaac's for some dinner on special rainbow bread and then used another gift card for some Dairy Queen treats. It was a truly Dutch Wonderful day!
Thursday: A Day of Family Traditions
July 4th was a special day of family time and outdoor adventures. We started the morning by putting on our swim gear and heading to the creek with Grandma and Pop for a morning of fishing and exploring. The kids splashed in the cool water, threw rocks, and even tried their hand at catching crayfish. It was a joy to see them so immersed in nature, laughing and sharing snacks under the shade of the bridge.
In the afternoon, we gathered at my in-laws' house for a classic Fourth of July grill-out. The scent of burgers sizzling on the grill mingled with the sound of laughter as our extended family gathered around. The kids enjoyed playing in a kiddie pool set up in the driveway, squealing with delight as they splashed and played games. Hearing my children roar with laughter alongside their Titi, primos, and abuelos truly warmed my heart and made the day even more memorable.
Friday: Park Playdates and Messy Fun
We spent the day at the park with our best friends, enjoying water balloon fights and vibrant sidewalk chalk creations. Running, jumping, and laughing while stomping in the mud. It was a day filled with laughter and messy adventures that kept us cool in the summer heat.
Saturday: Farm Tour and Pool Party
Saturday brought us to Swartz Farm for a memorable farm tour experience. Despite the sweltering heat, we were eager to meet the baby bunnies, mini horses, mini cows, baby goats, and chickens that call the farm home. The tour guides were wonderful, sharing stories about each animal's personality and allowing us to interact with them up close. It was a delight to see our kids' faces light up with joy as they pet the friendly creatures.
After a relaxing nap time, we gathered with friends for a refreshing pool party and potluck. The kids wasted no time jumping into the pool, cooling off with enthusiastic splashes and water games. Meanwhile, the adults enjoyed catching up over delicious food and icy beverages. Estella, our oldest, summoned the courage to join in the swimming fun, giggling as she bravely paddled around with her water wings and pool noodle.
Sunday: Wrapping Up with Backyard Bliss
Our staycation concluded with water play in our backyard, complete with hose antics and water balloons with Dad while Mom prepared for a celebration of life photo session.
Reflecting on our jam-packed staycation, I realize I may have squeezed in too many activities, but every moment was worth it. Sleeping in our own beds each night while still enjoying a vacation-like experience was simply priceless. These memories will be cherished for years to come, reminding us of the joy found in exploring our own community and spending precious time together as a family.
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