There is something so wonderful about being at the ocean... I am a Pisces so naturally, I feel the most peace being near water... Every year, I have been vacationing at the Jersey Shore with friends and family. It's been so memorable. Last year, it was two glorious weeks in Brigantine and it was sunny, happy, festive and fun. This year, my best friend Caroline and I ended up in Wildwood Crest.
I haven't been to Wildwood since I'm ten years old. The drive was great, the kids were great. The hotel on the ocean has everything you would want... The kids are excited and our days have been full and busy... We got up early today and Cassidy and her Mom Lynn came down from Brick, NJ and we went to the waterpark nice and early... A mere $210.00 for the family pack, lol. I was determined to go on every damn water ride and we did. My kids started to slow down but not me. We left the waterpark after several hours, and embarked on the boardwalk.
For some reason, Ella was focused on the Ghost Ship. A scary, interactive "haunted house" that stated on the sign, "kids under 12 are not recommended". I explained this to all the children. They were determined. Caroline refused. I was scared but determined to be strong for the children. I entered with 4 children and fake optimism. OMG. This was terrifying. 5 minutes into this experience, I realized, it was a mistake. Dark, loud, scary with men jumping out from the top, sides, bottom, it was too much to bear. What were we doing here?? I looked for exits and couldn't find them. Finally, with Ella in my arms, Noah wrapped in my arms and Cassidy and Catherine attached to my back, a new Zombie appeared in front of us with an ax. Noah, terrified, shouted, "no more, please, no more" and he vanished. It was understood, my kids had enough... We reached the exit and ran... I apologized to all the kids. I had no idea. Noah asked me to feel his heart beat. It was fast.
We ended the day positively.. a few more exciting rides, some ice cream, and finally, a gorgeous beach night with fireworks that lasted more than an hour.
I am watching them sleep... sun drenched, safe, happy. It's all I could ever want for them...
So Grateful...
The last two summers, I had the absolutely pleasure of sharing time with my daughter, son-in-law, and their family for getaways at Wildwood during August.
ReplyDeleteIn 2008 we arrived on my birthday in time to watch the beginning of the Olympics (08/08/08). Every minute we weren't out enjoying the ocean, the Waterpark, and all the fun, we were watching the Olympics.
Last year it was just focus on the beach and the Waterpark. I, too, was so grateful for those wonderful interludes in a special place.