Unlike most families, neither my husband or I went on vacations as a kid. Both of our families were deep into farm life and simply couldn’t leave. Although I understand now, it was especially hard as a child. When school would return after a break I remember my classmates going on and on about their wonderful vacations and it seemed so exciting. I felt a bit left out from the fun and longed to go somewhere, anywhere for that matter. But what I REALLY wanted was to see the ocean.
If you’ve heard of bucket lists, that was mine, except it wasn’t really a list at all because it was only one thing.
Things To Do Before I Die…
1.) See the ocean!
I’d tell myself over and over that one day it would happen but I was always scared that I’d never make it. I feared that one day I’d be too old to travel and never get that chance. It’s kind of silly, but I wanted it so much it hurt at times.
Maybe Dreams Do Come True?
After YEARS of begging and dreaming for this one simple wish, the opportunity came and we jumped on it. Just a few short months seemed so far away but as the days drew closer I couldn’t hardly believe it.
With only 2 hours of sleep we headed out the door at 1 am to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. Since I don’t drive on interstates my poor husband (who got less sleep than me) was left to drive all 10 hours of it without help. Since I’m alive writing this today, you’ll be glad to know that we all survived the trip. I’d like to thank 5 hour energies for keeping Kody alive!
The drive up there wasn’t too rough! I was completely shocked that we only stopped 2 times for a quick bathroom break and a snack. The kids were 100% troopers!
Home Away From Home
This summer vacation was full of firsts! Not only was this our first trip to the beach but camping in tents as well. I don’t think we knew what to expect but were up for the challenge. I’m not sure what we would have done though without our good friends who asked us to come along with them! Thank the Lord they knew a thing or two about camping because I was clueless.
Our campsite was roughly 200 yards from the beach and we neighbored the restrooms/showers as well as the playground which was so nice!
Initially I was a bit worried about the heat because although there was electricity hookup for fans, we did not have a portable air conditioner. Although the humidity had me feeling pretty sticky thankfully the heat was not much of an issue!
To help decrease waste I brought along our Berkey water filter so we could eliminate the need for plastic water bottles. I also used real plates, silverware and of course our cloth diapers too! The campsite had a really nice laundromat and we made our own clothesline with Paracord between the trees.
Finally, The Beach!
Once we got everything set up at our campsite, you all already know where I wanted to go! I could only get a glimpse of the ocean from the drive to our campsite so up until this time I hadn’t seen much of the water.
I could feel my adrenaline pumping as we made our way to the entrance but once I seen the water I can’t hardly describe the feeling. You all, it’s just as amazing as I imagined and even more so.
Although I didn’t get to experience the joys of the beach as a kid, I am forever thankful that my children will. I hope that Wyatt will always talk about the days of jumping the waves, racing baby clams, and building “the best sandcastle ever.”
I hope he can still taste the salt years from now and feel the sand beneath his toes.
Who knows what will be on his bucket list but one thing is for certain, “seeing the ocean” is already checked off!
More fun in South Carolina!
I’d have to say that the beach and camping were for sure highlights of our vacation, but that wasn’t the only fun we had!
Savannah’s Playground
If you have never been to Savannah’s Playground then my oh my you are missing out. This particular playground was made with special needs children in mind and named after nineteen year old Savannah Thompson. You can read more about Savannah’s story HERE.
While at the playground we ziplined and I may or may not have jumped out of a swing and nearly fell into a pile of poop! I still have the bruise two weeks later. Nearby the park is a gorgeous lake with the most adorable ducks and turtles. In case anyone else didn’t know, female ducks are extremely protective over their young and will for sure hiss at you!
Boardwalk
We had a gorgeous view of the ocean as we walked along the boardwalk. While there we had a blast at the arcade and enjoyed ice cream!
The Art Museum
One of my favorites from our trip was visiting the art museum! This year’s theme is called, “Can’t You Sea? Ocean Plastic Artifacts” A total of six artists created ARTifacts that were showcased throughout the museum. I’ve never seen something so sad such as trash be turned into something so beautiful. Each of these talented artists had a goal of bringing awareness to the way our environment is headed and I believe they executed it perfectly. To read more about this amazing museum check out there website HERE
So Is My List Complete?
Since my bucket list has now been checked off, what’s to do next? Well, of course it’s to go back! If the Lord takes me today at least I can FINALLY say that I’ve seen the ocean but if he grants me 50 more years I’d say take me back 50 more times.
Is that crazy? Should my bucket list consist of one thing or is there room for more? Let me know in the comments what is on your list!
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