I forgot how GREEN Massachusetts is. California is yellow in the summer... this year especially, we have dry dry hillsides that make Marin look crispy compared to the verdant green surroundings of MA. It was great to have a change of scenery.

 

 

Looking back at the Cape Cod vacation photos it all seems so blissful and perfect. But to tell the truth, the pictures don't capture the kids complaining. Some days Michael and I were wishing we had booked the kids into all-day babysitting or day-long camps.

 

 

  It seemed ironic that Alex was thrilled not by the scenery but that they sold Ugly Dolls in the local toy stores. I was surprised that the kids did not exactly appreciate the fact that they got to travel to the other side of the country to see something new; something I have been wanting to see for years.

 

 

In fact, about one week into the trip, Sam, decided he was homesick for Charm, our fox terrier.  Then he asked every day if that was the day he was going home to get his new bike. Alex, was homesick for his Lego collection. I was not homesick at all. I was trying to prolong the experience as long as possible. I wanted to drive along charming route 6A all day long and  explore the trails, antique shops and restaurants. I wanted to soak up the New England charm ooozing from every vista. However, travel with kids is not exactly a stroll to antique shops or Michelin food.

 

 

Despite their complaints, I am glad I spent each day with them. They were fighting over new things: who would sit in which car seat, who got to hold the kite. Noone was fighting over the Legos, who would open the front door, or get the green plate.

 

 

  So, a change of pace, change of surroundings, even if it's a change in subject matter on what the kids are arguing about....

It's all good.