July 28, 2015
I'm sorry to report, I don't get out much. My husband's idea of a vacation is going primitive camping--you know, dressing in garb from the hunter/trapper era and having nothing modern outside the tent. Not exactly my idea of a fun time, especially since I'm totally grossed out by port-o-potties. Since we have been married, Paul and I went to the Pocono's on our honeymoon, we took a weekend trip to Bedford, PA with our son, Jonathan, and I went on three bus trips (two trips to Washington DC and one trip to Pittsburgh). That is it. El finite.
Prior to getting married, I went to Ocean City Maryland twice. The first time was with one of my best friends in 1992. The second time was with my boyfriend, later to be husband, in 1993. I was in Heaven. And I was naive enough to think that our going to the beach together was a sign of many beach trips to come. Unfortunately, after taking our nuptials, I learned Paul doesn't even like going to the shore. Talk about heartbreak!
So this summer, when my dear friend Heidi invited my son, Jonathan, and I along to the Ocean City New Jersey with her and her daughters, it was like a dream come true. Finally....another trip to the beach after 22 years!!! With great friends!!!! I couldn't wait!!! I'm sure I drove Heidi crazy with all my questions.
Finally the big day arrived. On June 24th, we headed to the beach for the weekend.
We stayed at the Ocean Breeze Hotel. The price was decent and the place was clean upon arrival. It was actually more spacious than I thought it would be. The only issues that I really had with the place was that there weren't any blankets on the beds (just the sheet and duvet), the was no place to hang our bath towels, and there was no maid service while we were there. Otherwise, our stay was very pleasant. Breakfast of cold cereal, bagels, pastry, coffee, and juice was provided daily. And the pool was small, but very refreshing.
After unpacking we headed to the boardwalk. The tantalizing smell of boardwalk fries, the sugary scent of waffles, and the aroma of sunscreen mingled with the salty smell of the breeze wafting off the water. I love that smell! Eventually, we meandered down to the water, walking barefoot in the waves. Unfortunately, the ocean itself smells like dead fish, but that goes with the territory. The water was beautiful. Just being there gave me a feeling of relaxation and peace that I hadn't felt in years.
For dinner that night, we headed to the Hula Grill. We ladies indulged on Huli Huli cheese fries and rice with Huli Huli sauce. My son had the Hula Burger. It was delicious. I can't even began to explain Huli Huli sauce other than to say it is amazing.
My only regret was not buying a bottle to take home!
Later that evening, we stopped for Polish Water Ice....another delight I had never experienced. I opted for the lemon flavored ice---delish!
After some shopping and people watching, we headed back to the hotel for a swim. Heaven!
The next day brought even more new experiences. We went to
Booketeria Two to trade in books and pick up some new titles. I have to
say, I love that place!!!! Together, Jonathan and I bought 18 books. I can see why my friends go there every trip. The selection is awesome!
Then we did some shopping and walked around the Tabernacle and Memorial Gardens.....
(This is the preschool at the Tabernacle--adorable!).
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It was a glorious day spent with wonderful friends, laughing, joking, and bonding!! It was wonderful.
We went to Picchini's for lunch. I think the picture says a 1000 words....all ending in YUM!
Afterwards, we spent more time shopping on the boardwalk. Jonathan and I got ice cream at TCBY. It was a gorgeous day! Hot, but the ocean breeze felt wonderful. Later, we returned to the hotel to read our new books and nap.
Instead of a traditional dinner, we went to the Hobbie Horse for ice cream. Worked for me!!! I had coconut ice cream with hot fudge sauce on a waffle. Truly decadent. Unfortunately, Jonathan wasn't feeling the best so he didn't go with us. It was just us girls. We had so much fun!!!
Unfortunately, the next morning, it was time to head home. Our beach vacation was over much too soon.
But we stopped at Dickie's BBQ in Lancaster, PA on the way home. The brisket, baked potato casserole and fried onion tanglers were to die for!!! Can we say "gained 20 lbs"!!!!????
The last stop before home was the Disney Store. They have such cute stuff there.
Finally we arrived home around 3:30 p.m. Unpacking wore me out. I was dozing by 7:00 p.m. and in bed by 8:00. Back to the old grind the next day.
This trip was simply amazing and I thank my friends Heidi, Ashley and Gracie for including Jonathan and I. We had a wonderful time and I am so blessed that they are part of our lives.
In addition to having a wonderful time, I had an epiphany. I need to start living my life now....not keep waiting until I have more money or lose a lot of weight. Tomorrow isn't promised. I need to enjoy life, experience new places, and make memories while I have the chance.
Thank you, Heidi, for showing me this. You have not only taught me to expand my horizons, but to appreciate everything along the way.
