I know that our time is limited. My kids have grown up faster than I ever thought possible. Back when they were babies, a vacation where we could all carry our own suitcases was unfathomable. These days, it is more important to me than ever to spend time together as a family. Even if it is only for a couple of days.

This year, I got more resistance than usual when I suggested a family vacation. My kids have had a busy summer with camps, church group trips, visiting their grandparents, and being away from home more than they would like to be. Unfortunately, I know that unless we actually leave our house, my kids will fill their time with friends and other activities, so this year I had to really push for a few days away together. (This is where being in charge of this Queendom comes in really handy. It is a very benevolent monarchy, I must say.) I made plans for us to visit Stowe, VT and, as I expected, we all had a great time.

We stayed at the Trapp Family Lodge (yes, the von Trapp family from “The Sound of Music” actually moved to Vermont! Who knew?).

From the helpful front desk and front door greeters, to the extensive facilities, this place had everything we needed. Great food, free coffee, outdoor and indoor pool,

an Outdoor Center to rent mountain bikes and get trail maps, tennis courts (my daughter even took a tennis clinic with me), and spa (we enjoyed the sauna!), and most importantly a nearby bakery with coffee and yummy treats. My youngest son and I walked there early morning and were lucky enough to see a big fat hedgehog on the way home!

During the day, we played “Marco Polo” in the pool,

fished,

mountain biked (which turned out to be a great family activity)

hiked and played in waterfalls.

In town, there were very good ice cream options!

We were even lucky enough to see some cows up close and personal.

One night, the very friendly staff even set up a movie just for us on one of the many living rooms. This get-away gave our family a chance to reconnect and have some laughs together. When my kids kept insisting that they wanted to go back to town to see the “Fried Swan Show,” I didn’t know what to think.

When they realized it was just a gallery, they, of course, lost interest. I have to admit, a “Fried Swan Show” did sound really interesting.

My daughter taught us a new card game called “Fluxx” and we couldn’t stop playing every evening, even though we were so tired from our full day of activities. The moon on our last night was spectacular and reminded me of just how lucky we were to be able to share a couple of days together, out in nature, away from our day-to-day lives. I know these are times we will cherish.