Tuesday, January 6, 2015

The D.R.




What a week!  And what a reason to celebrate!  Mary Lou and Phil, aka Mom and Dad or Bumpa and Grandma made it through 50 years of marriage!  They announced last year that they didn't want a big party, they just wanted to take all of us on a vacation.


My mom spent A LOT of time researching the best vacation for a family of 13, with kids ranging from 3-12 years old and people who like to do everything from veg out on the beach to exercise.  




Well, let's just say, my mom "nailed it".  We went to an all inclusive resort in Punta Cana, on the Northeast side of the Dominican Republic.  The kids were thrilled to be with their cousins.


The accommodations were devine.


We danced.





We ate really well.

We swam a lot.


The beach was beautiful.


 

And the pool was enormous.


There was even a swim up "Manitee Bar"


Some people did Zumba



We spent a day snorkling and dancing and swimming with 50 of our best friend.








We rang in the New Year with much pomp and ceremony.


And mostly, we relaxed and had fun.  The kids LOVED the Explorers Club and opted to spend a few hours each day and three dinners there because it was way more fun than sitting through long dinner with the family. I read a book.  John and I sea kayaked, went on long walks, and ate some more. We all agreed that it was the most relaxing vacation we had been on as a family.



We all felt refreshed and ready to tackle the new year...... or so we thought!?!?!?


I'm so proud to be the daughter of these two people.  They are gracious and fun and humble.  I'm so happy that I could share this week in the D.R. with both of my families.  It really was a treat.