What a far cry from our previous two spring breaks! Last year we met my parents in Sedona, Arizona, where they had rented a vacation house for all of us to stay in. We hiked and played in the sun and enjoyed the 65-degree weather, but I definitely needed some down time when we got back. The year before we flew to New Jersey, again to see my mom and dad. We celebrated Passover with my siblings and extended family and other friends. I returned needing a vacation from my vacation.
This year, we went nowhere and did nothing, and I feel utterly relaxed and ready to go back to work. Okay, so we didn’t exactly do nothing, but not packing up and schlepping somewhere on a plane with the whole family has left me far more rejuvenated than I thought it would.
We went on a few outings and spent a lot of time at home, playing with our chickens, baking cookies and watching old movies. Our field trip to Jackson Bottom Wetlands, with a stop for lunch at a Mexican restaurant in Hillsboro, was a highlight, even with the rain. The birds are easy to see, the trails perfect for young kids, and the indoor displays are educational and entertaining – and it’s all free!
We also had fun eating waffles with ham and cheese at Flavour Spot on the corner of Mississippi and Fremont, followed by a visit to Pistil’s Nursery (more chicks and chickens!) and the Rebuilding Center. My kids like exploring parts of town that we don’t often visit, and eating out is always a treat.
Sometimes staying home is just the getaway we need!
Submitted by Anne

March 30th, 2009 | Category: Metro Parent