Growing up, family vacations were the highlight of my year. To spend countless hours with your siblings or parents in a new location for a few days seemed like the coolest thing ever, but as you begin to grow up and learn it isn't super cool to be sunbathing next to your mom in her floppy hat, it's only natural for your feelings to shift a little.
We all know the pain of having a parent nag you eight times in one day on what to pack for said vacation because clearly, we have no idea what we would wear on a hot summer day at the beach resort. Or my personal favorite, when your mom stuffs YOUR suitcase with strange Trader Joes snacks that no one but her will wants to consume. Once everyone has their bags filled clothing that only about 20% of which will actually be worn you head to the most wonderful part of the trip-the dreaded airport.
I always hate airports in large groups because someone gets the golden TSA Pre-check ticket while the rest of us slowly progress in the hour-long security line. Once through this horrible escapade, you finally get to find your gate and board the plane but not until you realize you are three hours early for the flight. Then my personal favorite, figuring out who sits where. With a brother who is six-four, he always gets the coveted aisle seat and I get jammed into the least wanted window seat.
Finally, you have landed at your destination! Relaxation is so close you can taste it but not before you check into the hotel fight over who gets what bed because you all know one person snores like a trucker, mumbles in their sleep, and someone else has a tendency to donkey kick anyone who comes close. At this point, everyone is just a bit fed up with the members of their family but you must breathe through it because remember, its just day one!
Over the next week or so you learn everything there is to know about your fellow family members from how they like their burger cooked to the absurd amount of pillows they need in order to sleep. Spending 24/7 with anyone is pretty challenging but especially the people who you love most in the world. There is bound to be a few tears shed and countless pointless arguments while also creating unforgettable memories and reminding yourself how lucky you are to have these crazy humans.
Family vacations. You can't live with them, and you can't live without them. I have certainly learned a lot from these trips, but overall our biggest take away is thankfulness for the people who love you so much they would willingly pay to deal with you in a beautiful location.
