We returned earlier this evening from our first family
holiday with the boys and I decided to write this now while it is fresh in my
mind… and also because I have a sneaky feeling tonight is going to be a
nightmare sleeping night for little Max who kipped just a little too much on
our way home. I have had to sssshhh, pat, pat him every 30min since he went down
and he is not settling - so may as well stay up and wait another hour before
hopping into my cosy bed for a proper sleep.
So first family holiday was awesome – I LOVED it and
cannot wait to do it again. Next time I will take 2 days to pack and prepare
rather than the one full day it took me this time and next time I will be more
prepared for a few little surprises.
So what did I learn? Bear with me (making lists is
like some kind of weird therapy for me)
1.
When doing a near 8 hour drive with a 2 yr
old and 4yr old leave at 2 in the morning so that they sleep for as least 4 of
the hours because otherwise you in for trouble.
2.
Don’t give your children choc milk on a
long road trip because when they projectile vomit it - it stains and smells
really bad.
3.
Pack 2 extra changes of clothes in easy to
reach places.
4.
Have two packs of wet wipes handy at all
times – strap it to your forehead if you have to.
5.
Keep a large rubbish packet handy - unless
you particularly like the “stray dogs attacked your rubbish bag and then dumped
it all in your car” look.
6.
Take air freshener in the car – it gets
rather manky in there.
7.
After “Mamma” and “Dadda” teach your
children to say “Vomit” so that you at least have some warning before the chaos.
8.
Keep change handy for the pay toilets –
its worth it.
9.
Pack throat lozenges because you’ll need
it - 8hrs is a lot of story telling, playing eye spy, and singing and not to
mention the occasional tongue-lashing in order to keep the peace. It all takes its toll.
10. Have a cold alcoholic beverage ready near the top of the boot so that
you can drink it while unpacking.
It certainly was a challenge but was it worth it? – YES
INDEED! Hole in the Wall accommodation was a little on the rustic side as far
as my usual choice in holiday destinations but I am learning that everything is what you make of it and it was perfect for us – I really loved my long weekend
away and really and truly look forward to going back! The scenery there is absolutely out of this world - am truly grateful that we can access this so freely.
It was such a treat to spend 3 days with my Mom and
Brother – I thank God for the extended family that surrounds these two boys,
what a blessing they are. This
entry is dedicated to Uncle Adriaan who is moving to Cape Town tomorrow – we
will miss you so much and can’t wait to visit you there.
xxx