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Fuentes Family Beach Vacation Summer 2015

Normal people plan a family vacation weeks or months ahead of time. I decide to do a beach vacation for the 7 of us with three days to plan. 7 = me + husband + 3 kids + 2 exchange students. Go-with-the-flow kind of people who enjoy imporomptu fun times is how I would best sum up our lifestyle.

My husband jokes that I can’t commit to things in my calendar unless they are deadlines, or I’m traveling for work. I argue that I like to be flexible so I can maximize fun opportunities. I’m someone who loves the chaos of the every day life-work juggle. I also love a good adventure, especially if it involves fresh air, water, and sunshine.

I’m pretty sure my kids thrive in this type of lifestyle too; at least, they haven’t complained. But when I mentioned a beach vacation, they jumped in excitement. This little guy made enless roads, tunnels, and castles with in the “giant sandbox.”

This summer, we’ve taken on two exchange students from Spain. Laura is here for two summer months (although she’ll return for a full year next school year), and Jaime is here for his Senior year of high school.

Laura is a bit shy, reserved, and the perfect amount of girly that complements Sofia’s personality. This summer, they’ve stayed up watching Disney movies on Netflix, doodling, and fallen asleep together in the bottom bunk in the room they share.

Their big-little-sister relationship is magical, and one that they will continue to grow when Laura returns next year.

Alex and Jaime are very much alike. They are social introverts; they like video games, and from time to time they need time to themselves and retreat. They are buddies. Like they’ve had each other around for years. In spite of their age gap, they get each other, possibly, because they are both middle children (although Jaime is one of 4 his mother assures me he is “the middle child”).

Within a couple of days, my kids have taken on to their new “big siblings.” And just like that, the Spanish kids have also incorporated themselves into our family. Regardless who pairs up with whom, they look like they’ve been siblings their whole life.

This year is going to be filled with new adventures, shared experiences, and many memories. I can’t wait to share them with you.

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  1. Julie

    August 27, 2015 at 2:09 pm

    we went to visit my parents who live 600 miles away, went with them to the Rochester Children’s Museum of Play, and the kids went to camp the next week. No family vacation this year, but maybe next year. We may still be recovering from last summer’s trip to DC 🙂 Thanks for the giveaway.

    Reply
  2. Kristina

    August 27, 2015 at 12:50 pm

    My DD started Kindergarten this week. She’s been ready to go to “big kid school” since July. No big vacations, South Dakota has so many attractions we did inexpensive day trips, while I was unemployed most of the summer.
    Your lunch ideas are tons cheaper than pre-packaged and school cafeteria lunches.

    Reply
  3. Melanie

    August 27, 2015 at 12:38 pm

    We made lots of summer memories -but, no vacation for us! We own a seasonal business and get to help others enjoy their “staycation” and enjoy our vacation during the winter months! Enjoy your family vacation pics…gives us something to look forward to! Nothing like having your toes in the sand!!

    Reply
  4. Sandra

    August 27, 2015 at 12:32 pm

    We went to the lake and spent lots of time fixing up and moving into a new home.

    Reply
  5. Alexis

    August 27, 2015 at 12:31 pm

    We didn’t go anywhere, just finally bought a house and moved!

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 29, 2015 at 12:14 pm

      That’s lots of work! congrats!

      Reply
  6. Faith

    August 27, 2015 at 11:56 am

    The summer went way to quick! No vacations but enjoyed family time. Playing with the kids and them helping with the garden.

    Reply
  7. Hilary

    August 27, 2015 at 8:50 am

    We are back to school in a week, and milking every last ounce out of summer (I’ll be back as well because I’m a teacher). We’ve been to the beach many times this summer, as it is close enough for weekend trips, and will be heading there two more times in the next two weeks!

    Reply
  8. Heather

    August 26, 2015 at 11:07 pm

    I love your sense of adventure! We took our boys, ages 8 & 10, on a 3-night backpacking trip in the Rockies just before the school year started. It was great to have the older one encouraging the younger when the slope got steep and the packs got heavy. On the last morning, we took turns sharing what we appreciated about each family member. Fun and meaningful!

    Reply
  9. Lori R.

    August 26, 2015 at 5:42 pm

    I tried to keep summer low key and skipped the camps and day trips but we were plenty busy with our beach vacation and back yard pool. It goes so fast. Kids went back to school this week.

    Reply
  10. Mayah

    August 26, 2015 at 1:44 pm

    With a job change, we did a long weekend at Lake Conroe. We are looking forward to our big vacation next year.

    Reply
  11. Mandy

    August 26, 2015 at 12:48 pm

    How wonderful that your family is hosting exchange students! Po think it’s great getting to learn things personally about other cultures and countries. And the way everyone already looks like they are related, WOW! Do the 2 students from Spain know one another?

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 26, 2015 at 1:41 pm

      Everyone says the same thing! that they all look related. The Spanish kids did not know each other.

      Reply
  12. Kim Kilts

    August 26, 2015 at 10:47 am

    We had an amazing summer. We went to Fort Myers Beach for 2 weeks, we went to Boyne Mountain Falls, MI for a week, and Indiana to visit family for a week. In the few weeks we were home we spent time with friends and each other. It was awesome and makes me ready for next summer’s adventures!!!!

    Reply
  13. Catherine

    August 26, 2015 at 8:49 am

    Our summer was great. No vacation this year as we were busy moving twice, but now we are settled in our first home and loving it.

    Reply
  14. Nicole J

    August 26, 2015 at 8:34 am

    Great pictures of your beautiful family and a lovely beach. What a wonderful experience for your children to have exchange students welcomed into your home. We were hoping to get to a beach this summer but we got lots of pool time.

    Reply
  15. Patricia

    August 26, 2015 at 7:03 am

    Had a great summer – can’t believe it is over! Highlights include a trip to the Creation Museum in Kentucky and a chance to attend the musical production of TEXAS in the Palo Duro Canyon!

    Reply
  16. Joyce Ward

    August 26, 2015 at 4:16 am

    Our family summer was spent reevaluating where we are and where we want to be. After working for the same company for 12 years I moved to a whole new field and changed my college degree to finally do what I have wanted since I was a child. My daughter is getting ready for art school auditions which is piling on more to her already busy schedule. If she gets in then this is the school she is with from 6th grade to graduation. While it is exciting it is also nerve wracking because we are delving into new pools and learning how swim again. Thankfully all the changes still allowed us time to take our annual camping trip and visit to various home grown attractions.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 26, 2015 at 1:42 pm

      Wow Joyce! You are a great example to your daughter that one should puruse her dreams! KUDOS!! Art school? wow. my duaghter would love it!

      Reply
  17. Ryann

    August 26, 2015 at 3:48 am

    Summer was fabulous! We take our “summer vacation” between March- may usually which we did again this year as well. We went to Florida to visit my parents and they kept our 8year old girl while the hubs and I got some fun time in Puerto Rico!!!! We looooooved Puerto Rico!!

    Reply
  18. Tessa

    August 25, 2015 at 11:18 pm

    First trip with the kids (ages 4 & 7) into the BWCA in northern MN, of course with a stop in Grand Marais (truly the coolest small town in America) for some bouldering on artist’s point and the world’s best donuts!

    Reply
  19. Audrey

    August 25, 2015 at 7:54 pm

    We have a great summer!!

    Reply
  20. Janet

    August 25, 2015 at 7:33 pm

    I spent every Wednesday with my Grandchildren, Shirome who is 9 and Solana who is 8. We had such a great summer .They are excited to get back to school.

    Reply
  21. Carolyn Gudmundseth

    August 25, 2015 at 7:03 pm

    We had a great summer – although it was way too short. We spent as much time as possible at some of the many beaches and rivers that Vancouver Island has to offer. Both my girls will be in preschool in a couple weeks and I will be back at university until December. I’m soaking up as much summer as I can before we are all back to the grind.

    Reply
  22. Kathleen

    August 25, 2015 at 2:43 pm

    You take such gorgeous pictures! We did not go anywhere exciting this summer but we have a great backyard to have creative adventures in. 🙂 Maybe we will save our pennies throughout the year and plan something for next year. With the busy school year amping up, I am enjoying not having to worry or run around for a couple more weeks yet. 🙂

    Reply
  23. Jodie

    August 25, 2015 at 2:09 pm

    great looking family. that’s a lot of lunches to pack 🙂

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 25, 2015 at 3:41 pm

      yeah… tell me about it 🙂

      Reply
  24. Lisa Fisher

    August 25, 2015 at 10:27 am

    We took our big family vacation in the spring-our last non-summer family vacation for quite a while. Our daughter starts kindergarten next week. So our summer has been a string of weekend trips-to the beach, to Hershey Park, to see family, to local museums. We even spent a few weekends at pick your own farms. Then we came home to can our fruits.

    Reply
  25. nicole

    August 25, 2015 at 9:55 am

    Summer was busy! My mom visited for 2 weeks, we traveled 12 hours in the car with 3 littles to visit my husbands family and my husband was take a summer school class. 🙂

    Reply
  26. Jamie

    August 25, 2015 at 9:00 am

    Our family was very blessed to bless our NANA with a girl vacation to her home state of Missouri! My girls where able to experience where their NANA grew up how her and PAPA met and meet my Aunt Patty. We were able to do this as a road trip and have great adventures! We were also able to travel as a family My husband, myself and two daughters to S. Carolina, this was so wonderful as their dad lives 2hrs south during the week for work so to be able to break away and leave real life behind to spend a week with friends and family was such a relaxing and reconnecting time for all of us! XOXO Jamie Chase!

    Reply
  27. Michele Morton

    August 25, 2015 at 8:05 am

    Our summer was great! We took the kids to New York City and Sesame Place. So much fun together as a family.

    Reply
  28. Lisa

    August 25, 2015 at 8:03 am

    Thank you for having these great giveaways! Wow. Well, we had an awesome summer doing things in our own city with our Playcation package and also in the nearby mountains of western NC. We usually go on the longer family vacation in winter or spring, & we’re hoping to visit LEGOLAND and maybe Universal Studios both in early 2016!

    Reply
  29. Melissa

    August 25, 2015 at 7:16 am

    Unfortunately our summer travel was visiting my Dad one last time, going to his funeral, then going back to help Mom with some stuff. We had great times there, but it was sad and hard.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 25, 2015 at 3:42 pm

      I’m so sorry you had to go through that this summer Melissa! I’m headed to Spain with my kids for one of those “one last time” trips…

      Reply
  30. paula

    August 25, 2015 at 7:03 am

    Our Summer has been incredible. A few short trips and lots of time at the pool.

    Reply
  31. Jessica

    August 25, 2015 at 2:17 am

    My family just got back from a week with family out of town + a weekend of camping. So much fun and much needed!!!

    Reply
  32. Ursula

    August 24, 2015 at 11:10 pm

    Our summer was very relaxing. Our highlight was a trip we took to visit my sis-in-law in Washington, DC. Other than that, we did outdoor swimming lessons, various splash pads, Centre Island (theme park) and lots of late nights!!! LOL! That will soon come to an end as school starts in 2 weeks!!

    Reply
  33. Suzanne Kirkland

    August 24, 2015 at 11:06 pm

    I just went back to work after four years of being at home, so we didn’t have any BIG summer plans… However, we still found time for lots of trips to the beach and even a weekend getaway to visit my parents in MT. Going back to work has been crazy, so the little weekend vacations have been extra special.

    Reply
  34. Mandy Cooper

    August 24, 2015 at 9:48 pm

    My husband and I are teachers, so we are lucky and spend each moment of the summer with our two kids (5 and 3). We are sad to see the summer end, but our family made tons of memories to cherish forever!

    Reply
  35. ttante

    August 24, 2015 at 9:02 pm

    Had a blast in Orlando, FL this summer!

    Reply
  36. Amy

    August 24, 2015 at 8:14 pm

    We had an amazing summer but, so fast! This summer I gave the kids disposable cameras to keep track of our summer. It was a cute idea….but, $70 later and some really blurry photos….I have learned to stick to your phones!! This summer we went to the NC zoo, visited family in Charlotte, went to some state historical sites, and the grand finale was a family trip to Chicago. The trip was amazing and we packed it in. Now off to school!! Thanks-

    Reply
  37. Linda Cicerello

    August 24, 2015 at 6:55 pm

    First I would like to say I love your website its great it covers so much in a great way. I also would like to add that my maiden name is Fuentes lol. As for the summer it has been ok, We didnt go on vacation this year because I am 8 months pregnant but we did make the best of it. We took our 11 year old daughter to amusements parks and went to family house with a pool. Trying to stay cool.

    Reply
  38. Jodey Cashman

    August 24, 2015 at 6:33 pm

    Love the photos! Sad summer is over already. We kind of fly by the seat of our pants … but we do go to Florida every year to visit the grandparents!

    Reply
  39. Shirley Brown

    August 24, 2015 at 5:05 pm

    I spent most of my summer teaching summer school for the children who wanted to learn to get ahead.

    Reply
  40. Susanne

    August 24, 2015 at 4:19 pm

    Went to Branson for the 4th of July holiday week

    Reply
  41. Marion

    August 24, 2015 at 4:03 pm

    It’s been a bit of a rough spring/summer for our family. Our family was able to spend a week with my mom after the passing of my dad in April. The kids love spending time at their house on the lake. We also celebrated my 3 mt old nephews baptism and traveled to Chicago for it. My daughter was sick for 2 weeks with pneumonia and then I caught it in July and still not back to feeling 100%. It is definitely going to take some time. Per my dr. could take 6 mts. For now I have slowed down and enjoyed spending more time with my little ones playing many board and card games/reading lots of books to them and getting back to yoga. No strenuous workouts for me.

    Reply
  42. Amanda

    August 24, 2015 at 3:56 pm

    How beautiful that you and the students are sharing your lives together–and they really do all look like siblings! Our summer was fun, but it was too hectic and went by way too fast. Our favorite thing was our second annual trip to a family resort in VT.

    Reply
  43. Cassanadra Zimmerman

    August 24, 2015 at 3:20 pm

    We had a great summer! We had a lot of trips and had a great time together as a family!

    Reply
  44. Erin Krueger

    August 24, 2015 at 3:03 pm

    Our summer was eventful! We moved from Barcelona, Spain to Minnesota. Can’t believe the fall-like weather here already. We are going to take advantage of the last few weeks of summer and go up north to the cabin.

    Reply
  45. Désirée Fawn

    August 24, 2015 at 2:29 pm

    Just a few weeks left until school starts up for us, but our summer was lovely! VERY busy but totally enjoyable. My daughter went to a few weeks of camp and she had a blast!

    Reply
  46. Meredith

    August 24, 2015 at 2:18 pm

    We had a crazy summer because we’re moving in a week – but managed to get to Italy to visit my in-laws and were able to go to the beach, hang out in Rome w/family & even stay in a real 17th century palace out in the countryside… it was my 2 weeks of paradise before back to reality!

    Reply
  47. Maria

    August 24, 2015 at 2:12 pm

    Had a staycation summer which has gone by entirely too quickly. Spent many weekends at the beach which has been a pleasure. School starts next week so going to use the last few days to spend more time at the beach and probably the zoo and aquarium. Next summer will be a two week vacation to Italy so that duffel bag would come in handy.

    Reply
  48. Melissa R

    August 24, 2015 at 1:58 pm

    I changed positions at work and got to spend summer at home with my 3 girls. So blessed! On top of that we live in Maui, so the beach is a hop & skip away. Grateful! Grateful! Grateful!

    Reply
  49. Megan

    August 24, 2015 at 1:32 pm

    We went to Disneyland! Not very original, but my kids love it and my 3-year-old was *just* tall enough to get on all the rides this year so he is now a fan of Thunder Mountain and Star Tours in addition to his previous favorite Pirates of the Caribbean. It was my 15-month-old’s first trip (well, that he remembers anyway) and he had a BLAST at the puddle park.

    Reply
  50. Jennifer Simms

    August 24, 2015 at 1:14 pm

    Great summer! our favorit time of year, Camps and weekend trips to New hampshire and Maine. Back to school next week for our daughter 🙂

    Reply
  51. Christine

    August 24, 2015 at 1:05 pm

    My kids have been back at school for a week and a half, but we had a great summer. I wanted them to have a “typical” summer like I had as a kid, so we hired my 19 year old cousin to babysit instead of enrolling them in camp or summer care. They had a blast with her and enjoyed endless trips to the pool, bike riding and field trips to bounce houses or the library. Our actual vacation this year was a budget friendly one for us – house sitting for my aunt who lives on a 3,000 acre cattle ranch in the mountains of Colorado. The boys had a blast riding horses in their cowboy hats, hiking, swimming and just enjoying the beautiful outdoors.

    Reply
  52. christina

    August 24, 2015 at 12:45 pm

    Our summer was very busy. We started it off with the last soccer game and end of season soccer picnic for 3 of our 4 children the day after school ended. The next day we drove to the Outer Banks, NC. It was our first family vacation since my 17 was 4. It was very nice. When we came home our 17 yr old son’s friend came up from NC to stay 2 months with us. From the moment we returned from vacation our kids were busy with softball and cheer practice and work (for older 2 boys) that the rest of the summer seemed to have gotten past us. Today all 4 kids went to school, one for the first time. A senior and kindergartner and 2 in between. Hopefully we find time to do something fun together like camping for Labor day before the colder weather sets in and to cherish the moments before they are gone.

    Reply
  53. Fanny

    August 24, 2015 at 12:32 pm

    This summer we decided to have a layback summer. Rather than filling Summer with different kind of activities that made our family busy, we just let the kids have 1 or 2 summer classes per week. Summer felt like a vacation to us, rather a more busier season of the year. By having more time to spend time with my kids, I got to know their personality much better. I learned to actively listened to them, rather than just pushing my own agenda on them. I wish Summer will come again soon (less the heat if possible, lol)

    Reply
  54. Amanda

    August 24, 2015 at 12:06 pm

    This summer we had a baby and then moved across the country. I’m ready for a vacation!

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 5:03 pm

      You need one!

      Reply
  55. Lyttle

    August 24, 2015 at 11:50 am

    The summer sure flew by! We moved into a bigger house in the same neighborhood. Then 4 weeks later, my hubby, 4yr old, 2yrd old and I took a 2 week vacation in Alaska for my father-in-law’s 60th, a present from us to him. We had a great time seeing wildlife and taking in nature. 2 weeks after getting back, my almost 5 yr old started TK and my almost 3 yr old started preschool! Lots of fun, but lots of changes in our home. Never a dull moment, that’s for sure!

    Reply
  56. Kathy

    August 24, 2015 at 11:37 am

    Summer has been a mix of ups and downs for us – we’re looking forward to a nice family outing over Labor Day weekend before school starts back up, though!

    Reply
  57. Rose Reins

    August 24, 2015 at 10:51 am

    We had a wonderful summer! Galveston and Chicago–but looking forward to school and Sunday lunch preparation!

    Reply
  58. Lisa Marz

    August 24, 2015 at 10:48 am

    Love your beach vacation. Wish we could be spontaneous like that. We went to Estes Park – Love it! Loved the Mountains!

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 10:49 am

      I love Estes Park! I can’t wait to take my kids there.

      Reply
  59. Kendra Rice

    August 24, 2015 at 10:35 am

    Our summer was great!!! My siblings all came out to visit and help us put a new roof on our house. I hadn’t seen them altogether since 2007. They stayed about 2 weeks and we did some sight seeing around Utah, which included a tour and the taping of Studio C, a production done at BYU and shown on cable tv. We also say an outdoor play of Mary Poppins, which was amazing!!! My middle son, Taylor age 13 went with his aunt to Las Vegas, Iowa, Wisconsin, and Michigan to visit family. My husband, youngest son, Emron age 5 and I went down to Vegas to pick Taylor up. My oldest boy is serving a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Ohio.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 10:42 am

      sounds like a totally fun-filled summer! I’ve fed a lot of missionaries in the last 5 years. I think what they are doing by serving is amazing.

      Reply
  60. Melisa

    August 24, 2015 at 10:34 am

    This summer my family of 5 includes Myself, My Hubby, and 3 wonderful,girls ages 8, 6, 4 went camping a lot! We bought Jet Skis this year and we love them! My girls had a blast! Love going to the Lake and Camping! Couldn’t of asked for a better Summer!!!

    Reply
  61. Wendy

    August 24, 2015 at 10:17 am

    We had a good summer. We had little league baseball to keep us running. We were not able to take a vacation but did enjoy a few weekend get aways. The kids started school today, where has the summer gone????

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 10:42 am

      I asked myself the same question last night.

      Reply
  62. Niki

    August 24, 2015 at 9:49 am

    This summer we took the kids to Lancaster, PA. They had a blast at Dutch wonderland amusement park, would definitely return next year. Besides that, they’ve been spending their time at the park, biking, going to the aquarium, and just enjoying the summer weather while it lasts.

    Reply
  63. Cristina

    August 24, 2015 at 9:46 am

    We had a great summer. Took the kids bicycle riding. They are too young to peddle so mommy pulled them in the bike trailer. Went to a lake, some birthday party swimming pools, sprinkler pads at parks and a trampoline day or two when it was rainy. Sad to see the summer coming to an end.

    Reply
  64. Audra

    August 24, 2015 at 9:44 am

    Our days in Las Cruces, NM are often in the high 90’s-100’s, so my family and I try to get outside for an early morning bike ride through our neighborhood filled with pecan trees, cows, roosters crowing, chickens cackling and the occasional peacock heard from a distance. These mornings are magical and we even saw a beautiful blue heron take flight right in front of us as we rode along an irrigation ditch!

    Reply
  65. Jay

    August 24, 2015 at 9:42 am

    We took several short weekend trips, camping and at the cottage. One of my highlights was fishing with my 5 year old. He caught his first fish, a small pan fish of sorts. The was followed by a 5 min debate on why we could not bring it home!

    Reply
  66. Mel

    August 24, 2015 at 9:37 am

    Took 4 kids on a road trip across the U.S. to visit family!

    Reply
  67. Christine Stadelman

    August 24, 2015 at 9:33 am

    We had an exciting summer. Our dog Butternut had puppies. We went and did some swimming and fishing. Went to visit family in Arkansas and got the girls room painted pink and purple! We enjoyed our summer now back to school! Our first full week of Kindergarden stared today! And its just me and my two year old at home doingsome bonding:)

    Reply
  68. christine

    August 24, 2015 at 9:20 am

    The Grady-bunch family vacation was down in San Diego again. My husband has a “rule” of never vacationing the same place twice because he wants the kids to experience as much as possible and see new places. This was our third summer vacay in San Diego – we love it there. We drive from Northern Cali with all our bikes and boogie boards and stay close to Mission Beach. Sad that school starts back up tomorrow and the rat race ensues but so happy we had such a full summer and memories to last a lifetime.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 10:02 am

      You had me laughing at Grady-bunch, Christine! I am glad you made some fantastic memories!

      Reply
  69. Mina

    August 24, 2015 at 9:19 am

    Traded our travel summer for later this year (a promise to an island destination!) due to my husband’s travel. Filled up our summer with lots of close family visits, fun summer camp weeks and lots of hugs, movies, eating and shopping time.
    The kids have grown a lot over the summer and it was so nice to have the relaxing time without schedules to enjoy!

    Reply
  70. Vicky

    August 24, 2015 at 9:18 am

    My 6 year old and 4 year old were so excited that for our vacation we went on a cruise! They loved being on the Ocean and enjoying the water slides and pool that the cruise ship had, plus the unlimited ice cream. We also went on another vacation towards the end of there summer break, a week before school started to San Diego. They loved the zoo and especially the hotel by the harbor were there was a small sea side village, and can see so many boats on the water. They said their vacation was full of ocean water fun!

    Reply
  71. Jamie Thompson

    August 24, 2015 at 9:06 am

    We did a lot of little things over the summer and really just stayed local. It was sad for me that school started today, I never like summer to end!!! 🙂

    Reply
  72. Jocelyn

    August 24, 2015 at 8:58 am

    We had such a busy summer! My kids (11, 6, and 3) welcomed their baby brother into our family last month, so the first part of the summer was spent getting ready for his arrival, and this last part has been doing some serious family bonding!!

    Reply
  73. Jill Appel

    August 24, 2015 at 8:57 am

    We have had a fun filled summer; camping, hiking, lots of museums, swimming, always lots of family time, and so much more.

    Reply
  74. Michelle

    August 24, 2015 at 8:51 am

    Thank you Laura for sharing your summer fun!
    We introduced our 5 year old to the Blues by taking her to an amazing Blues festival on the beach, then a Whale watch. She took swim lessons and is now swimming! She is off to Kindergarten next week.

    Reply
  75. Gail

    August 24, 2015 at 8:51 am

    We had a summer full of reunions: college reunion in June, a family reunion in July and a summer camp reunion in August. The kids had a blast at the family reunion, running around with cousins from around the country whom they rarely get to see. And now we’re enjoying a restful break between summer camp and school.

    Reply
  76. Erin K.

    August 24, 2015 at 8:46 am

    Unfortunately, we were unable to do much this summer. We spent a lot of time at home sick! In fact, my middle boy is just getting over a fever.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 10:13 am

      get well soon!

      Reply
  77. Melissa

    August 24, 2015 at 8:37 am

    This summer was a bit hectic for us! I started back to work after my maternity leave, so managing work (while caring for a new baby!), the house, and two kids in daycare left me feeling frazzled most days! But we had some busy weekends filled with lots of family activities – birthdays, BBQs, trips to the Adirondacks – so there was lots of fun, too. My son is starting Kindergarten next week, so I really wish I had more summer left!!

    Reply
  78. Debbie

    August 24, 2015 at 8:26 am

    Love your blog and I admire your energy taking on an exchange student for the year! We had a great summer and I am looking forward to getting back into the school routine.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 10:13 am

      Thanks Debbie! Routine is super important for us too. I fail miserably most days without it. lol

      Reply
  79. Jamie

    August 24, 2015 at 8:25 am

    We didn’t take a week long trip but we did some day trips and long weekends…one example: we went camping in Vermont. The kids had a blast looking for bugs, exploring the woods and sitting by the camp fire. It was a lot of fun.

    Reply
  80. Aubrey

    August 24, 2015 at 8:08 am

    We took a vacation up to Virginia to visit our best friends. I think we need another vacation ASAP!

    Reply
  81. Debbie Hausher

    August 24, 2015 at 8:04 am

    I took my granddaughter to visit her great-grandmother in TN this summer. She had a great time in the rural hills, visiting with family and walking thru many trails. Picked fresh berries and tried fishing out of a local pond. Lots of fresh air and exercise.

    Reply
  82. Jessie

    August 24, 2015 at 7:42 am

    We have had to vacations this year. One to SC and we are finishing one up now in Toronto Canada. They are both a combination of visiting family and doing the tourist stuff. Both vacations are not long enough.

    Reply
  83. Melanie

    August 24, 2015 at 7:42 am

    We had the fastest and greatest summer sailing and living on a boat for most of it.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:50 am

      That sounds amazing!

      Reply
  84. Karrie Heneman

    August 24, 2015 at 7:31 am

    We loved that we got to spend extra time together!

    Reply
  85. Ivy

    August 24, 2015 at 7:31 am

    We had a good summer. Went to Biloxi for a lil vacation. School started on the 10th & we’re still having trouble getting adjusted. My 6 year old is crying over breakfast as I type. He has a homemade uncrustable & were out of milk. Orange juice isn’t good enough.

    Reply
  86. Amber

    August 24, 2015 at 7:23 am

    We had a great summer! We took the kids to Disney World 🙂

    Reply
  87. Tracie

    August 24, 2015 at 7:18 am

    My daughter’s first time at summer day camp was so much fun, I wanted to go too!

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:21 am

      I had the same feeling every morning I dropped mine off at their summer day camp. It was 3 weeks long and they were sad it ended “so soon”

      Reply
  88. Shari

    August 24, 2015 at 7:11 am

    We had an awesome some at the Jersey Shore and the Outer Banks! Lots of Sun, Sand, and Surf. My girls also went to summer camp. I used this site to help pack healthy lunches and snacks that my kids would actually eat 🙂

    Reply
  89. Rachael S

    August 24, 2015 at 7:09 am

    Summer was great and busy! Lots of camping and just playing.

    Reply
  90. Rae Varela

    August 24, 2015 at 7:00 am

    Great summer… kids spent time with grandparents in Florida and mom and dad had time alone… Very refreshing!

    Reply
  91. Kristy Krehnovi

    August 24, 2015 at 6:48 am

    We had a busy summer. Went to swimming lessons, the zoo, bike rides, played outside and are rounding off the summer with a trip to Disney World. So excited.

    Reply
  92. Mariah W

    August 24, 2015 at 6:48 am

    I am similar in the last minute vacay planning. Our family vacay is always simple, we took off a long weekend and booked a hotel with waterpark in Mackinaw City, Michigan (half way to my sisters, who met us their to pick up my oldest for his break.)He spends a month in northern Ontario with my family each summer. All in all, it has been a great summer!

    Reply
  93. Kathy C

    August 24, 2015 at 6:43 am

    Summer was great, just because it was summer! In Ohio, summer seems to continue into September so that’s nice. We didn’t take any trips, but enjoyed working around the house and going to some Toledo Mud Hens baseball games.

    Reply
  94. Athena R

    August 24, 2015 at 6:32 am

    Our summer has been pretty good. We didn’t get to take a family vacation this year because we moved to a new city. We just been taking mini day trips exploring our new city and surrounding areas.

    Reply
  95. Amy B.

    August 24, 2015 at 6:03 am

    Back to school here on Wednesday. We had a great summer. Lots of swim lessons and traveling to Maine to see Memeire a couple of times.

    Reply
  96. Kathy

    August 24, 2015 at 5:59 am

    I am sad that summer is coming to an end, we are starting our 3rd week of school already. It was abnormally rainy here all summer, so we didn’t get to enjoy as many activities as I would have liked. My only daughter, who’s 10 has had plenty of sleepovers and several pool days. We did make a trip to the beach! I love summer!

    Reply
  97. Kim

    August 24, 2015 at 5:55 am

    We started off the summer with a trip to Florida to see the grandparents and just to relax. First time flying for the kids, what excitement. While in Florida we saw Tampa Zoos Zoominations, The Tampa Aquarium, The Mixon Fruit Farm, and did plenty of swimming. To now wind down for the beginning of school and start of sports.

    Reply
  98. Jennifer McDonald

    August 24, 2015 at 5:51 am

    Summer was good. We took a family vacation and my daughter when to princess camp we should really enjoyed.

    Reply
  99. Kristina

    August 24, 2015 at 5:40 am

    We had a busy summer, but for the most part it was busy with fun. No real vacations but lots of day trips to go hiking. While it was a nice time, I am looking forward to getting back to our routine more with the school year. And I think for the first few weeks it will almost feel like slowing down!

    Reply
  100. Candis

    August 24, 2015 at 5:31 am

    We spent a lot of time this summer splashing in the river with our boys.

    Reply
  101. Claudia B

    August 24, 2015 at 5:28 am

    We have tried camping a few times this summer. Our boys ages 2 & 4 love it so far but that may be because we have an RV and they dont have to sleep in tents 🙂

    Reply
  102. Kim

    August 24, 2015 at 5:22 am

    I know everyone seems to say it but – the summer flew by! We too planned our vacation last minute. My boys were excited to learn we were going to fly to Florida. This messed up my usual plans of packing all of the food we would normally eat. I was able to stick to a plan with fresh, healthy food at the local grocery store. Sometimes it’s harder when you are on vacation :).

    Reply
  103. Megan Owens

    August 24, 2015 at 5:12 am

    We are wrapping up the summer with two weeks in Algarve, Portugal so my son can spend time with his grandparents who live here.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:11 am

      I love Portugal. Have a great time!

      Reply
  104. Carmen Davis

    August 24, 2015 at 5:01 am

    We had a great summer! We moved to a new town, took a week beach vacation with the extended family and unpacked!!! School starts today. My high schooler is about to head out the door and my 5th and 1st grader is staying home for homeschool with me (our first year)! Wish us luck!!!!

    Reply
  105. Sandra

    August 24, 2015 at 4:12 am

    Had a wonderful summer, beach trip and lots of family time! The summer was too short!

    Reply
  106. Ludicrous Mama

    August 24, 2015 at 2:56 am

    We didn’t go anywhere for summer break, but we got to move into our new home, which was a pretty big adventure!

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:11 am

      new house totally makes up for not going anywhere. this is the beginning of new fun times Kendra!

      Reply
  107. JANINE

    August 24, 2015 at 2:18 am

    Hi, You have such a lovely family….We are a family of 6, myself and hubby and 4 kids. Dominic(13), Courtney(9) and the twins, Alex and Tyler(3). I have tried a stack of your recipes, especially the lunch box ones and although only 1 of the kids is a fussy eater, most times the recipe i choose is a winner! Thanks so much for all the tips too!
    I love the give-away items, but see that the South African fans aren’t included though 🙁
    Anyway, thanks for being so dedicated to what you do.
    Janine

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:12 am

      Thank you Janine for trying my recipes! I will check and see if they ship to SA.

      Reply
  108. Simone

    August 24, 2015 at 1:37 am

    This summer has been a busy one for us. We have moved to a new city and have decided to homeschool this year. We did get in a short trip to FL.

    Reply
  109. Marcy

    August 24, 2015 at 1:29 am

    I love all the pics of the beach! I miss the beach so much. My family didn’t get to do too much. The oldest went to a few concerts with my husband. That’s always fun. The little ones got to spend so much time with me. They love that. As do I 🙂

    Reply
  110. Lesley

    August 24, 2015 at 1:08 am

    This summer we took lots of trips to Disneyland. We have season passes we have to make the most of them 🙂 Also a week in Montana to visit family.

    Reply
  111. Gaby

    August 24, 2015 at 1:06 am

    We had a blast on the beach with grandparents, aunts and uncles, and cousins. Best time ever!

    Reply
  112. Kimberly

    August 24, 2015 at 12:45 am

    We camped at San Onofre Beach with our 3, 5, and 9 year olds. Wonderful memories were made.

    Reply
  113. Cynthia Hernandez

    August 24, 2015 at 12:39 am

    Getting ready for my granddaughter’s first day of Pre school.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:13 am

      hopefully you won’t need too many tissues 😉

      Reply
  114. Margie

    August 24, 2015 at 12:33 am

    Our first day of school is tomorrow! We took a trip to Legoland and SeaWorld, California this summer and my 4 year old daughter is still talking about it! We all had a blast

    Reply
  115. Lili

    August 24, 2015 at 12:24 am

    We had a great summer-went to Atlanta, cabo San Lucas, and Legoland. Spent time catching up with the family

    Reply
  116. Shana Horner

    August 24, 2015 at 12:24 am

    The best way to describe our summer was TOO FAST! It all went by too fast, especially since our summer doesn’t start until late in June. We did some camping, which we love!

    Reply
  117. Lisa

    August 24, 2015 at 12:24 am

    It’s been a busy summer but fun. Weddings, birthdays, other small gatherings. But best of all is that my 3 yr old is learning how to swim! He loves it.

    Reply
  118. Trisha

    August 24, 2015 at 12:16 am

    My son and I went on a 1 night campout (in a tent). I call it a vacation where we “roughed it”, but the truth is, we were only 10 minutes from home and there was a camp leader that was available at all times. We havent had the money to go on big vacations, so I looked for opportunities to go on little ones. It really was a great little mini vacation. I had some great quality time with my 6 year old son and he had some great stories to tell people that asked about his summer (like collecting poisoness spiders, surviving a thunder and lightening storm in a tent, playing Skippo in the middle of the night by flashlight, etc…)

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:14 am

      quality time is most important Trisha! go glad you got some!

      Reply
  119. Jennifer

    August 24, 2015 at 12:11 am

    It was a LONG summer. Didn’t do much in the beginning, but finally met up with my twin sister and her 2 kids, our parents, my oldest daughter her husband and my grandson and my 2 younger kids as well. We all traveled to our parents in CA. It was a much enjoyed and much needed vacation. Our mom got sand castle lessons for all the big kids, our dad and myself :O) lotsa fun and we actually did learn a lot :O) This week has been extremely intense. We have life and school however we are moving too. Just a couple streets down, but moving nonetheless. Anyway, thank you for all your helpful tips etc. They are much enjoyed :O)

    Reply
  120. Laura G.

    August 24, 2015 at 12:11 am

    We are major planners. We saw family, which was great. My kids went to two camps (because they love them!) While Mommy and Daddy got to enjoy some quiet time visiting relatives for a week. And, most important, our daughter had scoliosis surgery. 8 long hours to straighten out a nearly 90 degree curve. That kept us home for the rest of the summer, but now she’s nearly 4″ taller!

    Reply
  121. Aline Grigorian

    August 24, 2015 at 12:07 am

    Didn’t get much of a summer… My daughter started Kindergarten at the end of July (year round schedule), but we’re planning to go to Disneyland for Labor Day.

    Reply
  122. Poppy Sumrall

    August 24, 2015 at 12:02 am

    We took our first ever road trip with 4 year old daughter — Yellowstone!! Best vacation ever. Plenty of time to “just be” with my favorite people!!

    Reply
  123. Tracie M

    August 24, 2015 at 12:01 am

    We took our 8yr old and 12 yr old on a surprise trip to Disney World. Just woke them up at 5am and drove to the airport. It was fun to keep it a mystery until they were on the plane!

    Reply
  124. Tasha Demirel

    August 23, 2015 at 11:58 pm

    How fast this summer went. My 4 1/2 yr old daughter had her first sleep over – what excitement and fun we had with that. Where do these little girls get the energy from to stay up so late giggling – guess this is what to come 🙂
    with that said the thought of her winning the butterfly duffle bag would make her over night trips so much easier than grabbing a reusable grocery bag as I only have a large suite case or grocery bag – who knew sleep overs so soon. She is totally into fairies and butterflies. This bag would work well for her roller-skate classes she started – and yes they still have disco balls – ahh memories.
    Every one sounds like they’ve had such a wonderful summer – we will actually travel end sept when in-laws come to town – again my daughter would have her very own bag that she would cherish.
    Thank you for the entry and good luck to all

    Reply
  125. Karen

    August 23, 2015 at 11:56 pm

    We had a great summer!! We spent some of it in St Germain, WI. Fishing, farmers markets, and flea markets. It was a lot of fun!! Would love to be in the duffel bag giveaway….Thanks

    Reply
  126. Arlina

    August 23, 2015 at 11:55 pm

    Our family spent the first week of summer in a beach house rental. Walking distance to the beach and salty air… Heaven on earth
    Can’t wait to return!

    Reply
  127. Carole S

    August 23, 2015 at 11:47 pm

    Awesome summer! Took three mini trips, in state, and daughter enjoyed a Frozen ballet camp and both son and daughter took swimming lessons!

    Reply
  128. Louise

    August 23, 2015 at 11:47 pm

    Our school starts on Wednesday!!!! Our whole summer was full of softball I had one in all stars and the other in travel ball so our family vacation was wherever the tournament happened to be!!!! I wouldn’t have it any other way

    Reply
  129. Jodi

    August 23, 2015 at 11:37 pm

    Great last minute getaway-looks so fun!! That’s mostly our style too 🙂 Our summer trip is coming next week! We are flying from San Diego to road trip in the midwest: Chicago-Indiana (College football Notre Dame vs Texas!)-Madison, WI road trip. My 3.5 & almost 2 yr old haven’t been on many long car trips (planes, yes, just not road trips!) so I’m hoping they will do alright. Hopefully I’ve come up with some good ideas to keep them entertained on the longer rides. I will definitely be taking some of your tasty goodies on the plane with me. I finally tried the oatmeal energy bites this weekend and my kids loved them. My three yr old kept asking for another “bite energy”! 🙂

    Reply
  130. Julie W

    August 23, 2015 at 11:31 pm

    I love that you open your home and hearts for exchange students!! I wish that we could! Our summer has been a great mix of being busy and going places, and just hanging out together. Camping up north Wisconsin for 8 days over the 4th is the only family vacation we can manage, but it’s the best!! Lots of memory making! Thank you for the chance for a giveaway!

    Reply
  131. Diana Miramontes

    August 23, 2015 at 11:27 pm

    Good Evening!
    My children spent most of their days at summer camp. They went on a lot of field trips. They liked the California Space Centet the most because they got to see the space shuttle Endeavour up close

    Reply
  132. Jackie

    August 23, 2015 at 11:24 pm

    I’d love to win a bag for my son & our summer is almost over but we spent it at the beaches as much as we could. We plan on camping this week for my boyfriends birthday.

    Reply
  133. Heather

    August 23, 2015 at 11:23 pm

    Love the last-minute planning! I’m an impulsive Aries but having a 3.5 yr old and a 21 month old – has made me a planner…sigh. So summer was filled with planned play dates – truly the best! Whether at a park, a house, a pool or just a kid-friendly restaurant…everyone wins: moms and kiddos!

    Reply
  134. Betty

    August 23, 2015 at 11:22 pm

    Disney world, Palm Springs, Hawaii…wonderful vacation year!

    Reply
  135. Jessika

    August 23, 2015 at 11:12 pm

    Our family took a week-long trip up to Empire, MI and visited the Dunes among other enjoyable spots. It was amazing. Baby wearing my 4-month old at the time wasn’t as bad as I thought it’d be with our excursions.

    We also did a lot of our summer usuals that my girls enjoy. Summers are so great for us but alas all good things come to an end. My baby (eldest) starts Kindergarten in a couple weeks and I’m not ready for that!!!

    Reply
  136. Tamara

    August 23, 2015 at 11:06 pm

    We had a great summer. I had my 3 girls and my 3 nieces at my house everyday for the summer. So that made 6 girls a two year old, 4 four year olds, and an 11 and 12 year old. We took local day trips but nothing far or over night. Now that the older girls are back in school my little ones are missing them. 🙂 it was a great bonding time for the cousins.

    Reply
  137. Sue

    August 23, 2015 at 11:04 pm

    Your vacation pictures are wonderful. You have a beautiful family!!!

    Reply
  138. Tara

    August 23, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    I took my kids to my parents house (who live in another state) while we got new floors in our kitchen and entry way. Yay!

    Reply
  139. Annie

    August 23, 2015 at 10:36 pm

    We just came back from Iceland. It was an awesome trip! Now, we’re looking forward to getting back to our routines 🙂

    Reply
  140. Shera Smith

    August 23, 2015 at 10:35 pm

    Our summer was disappointing. It seems that I or my husband have been sick all summer. The boys (8 year old twin boys) did several camps and activities so they have still had a good time but no family vacation, which leaves me disappointed. We are going to go on vacation thanksgiving week and also do a few weekend trips so hoping to make up for a lack luster summer.

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:15 am

      I hope you all feel better and the fall is fantastic.

      Reply
  141. Michelle Spott

    August 23, 2015 at 10:34 pm

    All 3 kids were at sleep away camp for 4 weeks so that was a treat for me and my hubby! We had lots of beach time – both while the kids were away and once they returned. Other than beach time, we had a fantastic impromptu day at Hershey Park last weekend. So much family time! Not quite ready for school to begin next week!!

    Reply
  142. Cezanne

    August 23, 2015 at 10:33 pm

    What a fun trip, the beach looks gorgeous. We had a good summer, lots of fun, we went to the park and the pool often. We had family visit from Jamaica and we even got to do a few road trips to Orlando.

    Reply
  143. Curie C.

    August 23, 2015 at 10:27 pm

    I took my Girl Scout camping with more than half of the girls had never gobe camping before! It was an awesome experience to share with them and we had a whole lot of fun!

    Reply
  144. Sarah G

    August 23, 2015 at 10:25 pm

    We had a great summer filled with camps, family time, beach outings, and relaxing weekends! School starts in a couple weeks!

    Reply
  145. Briana Bergner

    August 23, 2015 at 10:19 pm

    Great Pictures! Our summer was low key but I can’t wait for the next family vacation.

    Reply
  146. Julie

    August 23, 2015 at 10:16 pm

    We enjoyed a trip to Disneyland with our extended family. So much fun for all!

    Reply
  147. Anna

    August 23, 2015 at 10:16 pm

    I cant believe how fast this summer flew by! We got to the last week and realized that we had not gone anywhere. We took a last minute beach trip too, and it was amazing! No stress over planning and packing, we just made do with what we put in the car.

    Reply
  148. Liz

    August 23, 2015 at 10:14 pm

    We went to a heritage adoption camp with our 8 year old! Fun times and lots of learning.

    Reply
  149. Christine

    August 23, 2015 at 10:09 pm

    Spent time at the lake in our beautiful state park!!

    Reply
  150. Michele Francis

    August 23, 2015 at 10:08 pm

    Summer went by way too fast! We visited Chattanooga, Tennessee which is very cool place; had a magic birthday party for a 7 year old and a rainbow party for a 4 year old, visited family, family visited us, several day trips and many days spent in PJs!! Bummed it’s over

    Reply
  151. Lindsey May

    August 23, 2015 at 10:06 pm

    we spent our summer vacation working and camping, The kids had a blast fishing and exploring and we enjoyed watching them

    Reply
  152. Sandee R

    August 23, 2015 at 10:04 pm

    We went on our first (and definitely not last) Disney cruise. Perfect vacation for our 6.5 year old and almost 4 year old!

    Reply
  153. Suzie

    August 23, 2015 at 10:03 pm

    Had a great and too-short summer spending time with family and friends. Invested in a lake house and starting on the remodel now. Next summer will be even MORE fun! Thank you for your lunch ideas. Our 3-yr-old has always eaten anything but suddenly is getting pickier so your creative ideas help so much.

    Reply
  154. celena w

    August 23, 2015 at 10:01 pm

    Lots of swimming, but already starting our 3rd week back in school.

    Reply
  155. Stephanie

    August 23, 2015 at 9:57 pm

    We had a great summer. My son has already started back to school, second grade. I’m enjoying your articles and recipes. This year I decided to make all of my sons lunches. I decided to try the yumbox you recommended. So far so good, just hope I can keep it up. Thank you

    Reply
  156. Jenn

    August 23, 2015 at 9:56 pm

    We had a great summer. We did lots of camping

    Reply
  157. Chrysta B.

    August 23, 2015 at 9:51 pm

    We went camping camping in the Smoky Mountains! So much fun!

    Reply
  158. Heidi

    August 23, 2015 at 9:51 pm

    We had a full summer, with lots of time at the pool, reading and family vacations to the city (St. Louis) and country (camping!).

    Reply
  159. Lea Ann fisher

    August 23, 2015 at 9:50 pm

    We had an awesome summer. Moved houses, moved schools,moved teaching jobs for me. Lilea my 8 year old and Trip my 2 year old got to experience Lego Land in Grapevine and ride the historic train, thanks to their aunts.

    Reply
  160. Alex

    August 23, 2015 at 9:46 pm

    We spent our summer spending lots of time together at home, as well as a fun trip to Monterey!

    Reply
  161. Deborah

    August 23, 2015 at 9:40 pm

    My first day back to work is tomorrow. I am a SLP in a school district. We went up north boating (tubing, skiing and surfing) as much as possible this summer with our four girls. The girls go back to school next week and I can’t wait to try all your recipes and ideas in their lunches. Love your emails! Thanks so much!

    Reply
  162. Megan

    August 23, 2015 at 9:38 pm

    I’m 8 months pregnant with my 4th. I have a 6 year old and 4 year old twins. We didn’t get out much this summer, due to some pregnancy complications…so we visited a lot of family and played in our pool. Inside camping. Sleepovers in moms room. Baking. Tried to make it as fun as possible

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:17 am

      I remember being pregnant over the summer with my 2nd… not as much fun. I hope the rest of this pregnancy goes smoothly and congratulations!

      Reply
  163. Kelly

    August 23, 2015 at 9:32 pm

    Went to Florida!

    Reply
  164. Kim

    August 23, 2015 at 9:32 pm

    Later on in life, I would love to open up my home and host an exchange student. I love that your kids seem to adore their new “older sibling”. Summer is fleeting by for us. It is already August and we haven’t made it to the beach yet! So envious! 🙂

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:17 am

      Don’t wait too long. They are great help and they don’t come to the US to hang out with a house empty of kids… they want to be among families, help out, and be part of something. you won’t regret it.

      Reply
  165. Kyna

    August 23, 2015 at 9:30 pm

    We went camping at a state park. Have gone on some field trips and a few more before I go to work and boys go back to school. 🙂

    Reply
  166. Amy J

    August 23, 2015 at 9:28 pm

    We had the busiest summer ever!!! We visited complete opposite sides of the United States…..Connecticut one week, Maui a few weeks after that. We also enjoyed some Staycations neat our home boogie boarding at the beach and going to Disneyland. I’m looking forward to challenging myself with some new lunch and snack ideas from your cookbooks as we get ready to start back to school on the 1st.

    Reply
  167. Michelle G.

    August 23, 2015 at 9:26 pm

    Our family vacation looked very similar to yours at the beach.

    Reply
  168. Christina

    August 23, 2015 at 9:23 pm

    We took an impromptu family trip to Gettysburg and Hershey Park and it was awesome! We have had a great summer, but its so fleeting!

    Reply
  169. Melanie Leenheer

    August 23, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    Summer passed super fast this year.
    We got some fun things in. Excited to start our first year of homeschool!

    Reply
  170. Suzie

    August 23, 2015 at 9:21 pm

    School for us starts on Tuesday. We just got back from 2 nights & 3 days at Legoland. My almost 7 year old and 3.5 year old LOVED it. I need a day or so to recover. We had a great time and it was perfect to get a final trip in before school.

    Reply
  171. Kris H

    August 23, 2015 at 9:19 pm

    My 8 and 11 year old boys went to sleep away camp in the mountains this summer for the first time and loved it! One week for the 8 year old and two weeks for the 11 year old. The youngest went to Girl Scout Day camp. The whole family had a wonderful adventure during a week at the beach. Summer flew by with visits from family and hanging at the pool. Cannot believe we are heading into our fourth week of school already.

    Reply
  172. Jes Cal

    August 23, 2015 at 9:17 pm

    We a GREAT summer! Went to the beach in South Padre, San Antonio and played with lots of memories with friends! So sad it’s over but glad the kids will be filling their brains with new things!

    Reply
  173. Nichole Devlin

    August 23, 2015 at 9:16 pm

    We spent a week “in the forest” in a condo. We had fun hiking, swimming, playing games but most importantly no schedule to follow.

    Reply
  174. Claudia Ortega

    August 23, 2015 at 9:14 pm

    Had a great summer, went out to Palm Springs. Now planning our 2nd year of homeschooling. Love all your articles and IG post.

    Reply
  175. Amber Wolfe

    August 23, 2015 at 9:14 pm

    We had a laid back Summer. Two oldest kids were out of town most of the summer and the little monkey felt like an only child. Glad to have all my monkeys back under one roof!

    Reply
  176. Keisha A

    August 23, 2015 at 9:10 pm

    We didn’t take a trip this summer. My oldest daughter is special needs so she had summer school. We also spent our summer getting our five year old ready for kindergarten with reading and writing. Hopefully next year we can take a trip to the beach! Glad your family had a great time:)

    Reply
  177. Sue B.

    August 23, 2015 at 9:07 pm

    Hi- we had a great summer! We are a US family of 4 currently living in Okinawa, Japan. We had a great family vacation- went to Kuala Lumpur and Penang, Malaysia and Singapore- our kids love to travel!

    Reply
  178. Kristy

    August 23, 2015 at 9:06 pm

    We spent this summer sharing day trips like a ride on a train, hikes on the trail, a fancy ice cream parlor, play dates at a friend’s house, and a day at the beach!! Boy, did it go by fast!

    Reply
  179. Dena

    August 23, 2015 at 9:02 pm

    Our summer went too fast!! I know most people our ready to get back, don’t get me wrong the routine will be nice, but I love summer!! My kids are on a swim team so we spent most of our summer swimming, swim meets and visiting family. My kids start school tomorrow and they are super excited, that’s good for me.

    Reply
  180. Barbara Platt

    August 23, 2015 at 9:00 pm

    We had a great time spending time with our grandkids this summer.

    Reply
  181. Sandra B.

    August 23, 2015 at 8:59 pm

    We made a trip to see my Mom and then have stuck close to home. Thanks!

    Reply
  182. Jaime Reichelt

    August 23, 2015 at 8:59 pm

    Our summer was busy with lots of activities and time spent outdoors.

    Reply
  183. Leslie

    August 23, 2015 at 8:57 pm

    Such a cute family. Looks like such fun. We had a summer full of camps and topped it off with a vacation to the Grand Canyon.

    Reply
  184. Jessica

    August 23, 2015 at 8:54 pm

    We went on a short shore trip now going on a short camping trip!

    Reply
  185. Stephanie

    August 23, 2015 at 8:49 pm

    What a great photo of the surf board with the waves! We visited great-grandparents on their farm in Missouri. A very special trip with very old relatives. It is always a treat to be able to see them again.

    Reply
  186. Teva Wright

    August 23, 2015 at 8:46 pm

    This summer we took a trip to Pensacola, Florida. The 4 of us spent time on the beach & in the pool. The mermaid of the family likes the pool whereas two others like the ocean. I, on the other hand, like to chill under the umbrella with a nice cold, refreshing drink and a great read.

    Can’t wait to enjoy our new calendar that includes a week long fall break, winter break, Thanksgiving break, and the usual spring break!

    Reply
  187. Elissa

    August 23, 2015 at 8:45 pm

    Sounds like a wonderful time! I think our favorite summer activity this year was swimming!

    Reply
  188. Morgan W

    August 23, 2015 at 8:44 pm

    We had a wonderful getaway to the mountains in North Carolina!

    Reply
  189. Rehana khan

    August 23, 2015 at 8:44 pm

    What a nice vacation you all had!
    In my house, we a typical summer vacation… We went to Fl or as my 5 year old calls it “house of princesses”. According to her, it was the best vacation ever so I’m satisfied with that.

    Reply
  190. Michelle

    August 23, 2015 at 8:43 pm

    Unfortunately it was Not a very exciting summer for our kids. We are part of the sandwich generation and spent most of the summer caring for elderly parents. On the positive side our children continue to learn about patience, compassion, kindness, etc. and they got to spend quality time with their grandparents

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:19 am

      Michelle, you are teaching your children that caring for our parents is what we are supposed to do. We had a season of taking care of my father-in-law (for about 3 years) and my daughter (the oldest) has the most caring attitude towards older people and people who need help. you are a great role model. *hugs*

      Reply
  191. Steff Parmental

    August 23, 2015 at 8:43 pm

    Our summer was filled with swim lessons, summer reading program at the local library, and playmates with friends. My 10 year experienced 6 days at Girls Leadership Camp in big Bear Lake and swam with the Dolphins at Sea World for her birthday. As for my 8 year old daughter, we took many trips to the beach and will be celebrating her birthday at Disneyland and she will get fancied up at Bippity Boppity Boutique.

    Reply
  192. Kristin

    August 23, 2015 at 8:42 pm

    Looks like a great vacation! We went to the Finger Lakes for the first time and loved the trip. The Bixbee duffel bags seem perfect for travel.

    Reply
  193. Nichol

    August 23, 2015 at 8:39 pm

    I love that you were able to take a vacation like that with so many people on such short notice!!! I only have 4 (4= me +my husband + my brother+ my 4yr old daughter) in my crew and things always get forgotten and/go awry if I don’t plan at least a week in advance. This summer/school year has been full of alot of new things for my family. We moved to a new house across town with my brother. That same week I went from a satay at home mom to working full time. My 4 yr old is also going to school this year for the first time. So many things have happened in such a short amount of time, its been a crazy whirlwind of a summer for us. I just hope that i handled it with as much grace as it seams you did!

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:20 am

      Lots of adjustments this summer Nichol! Look at it as a new adventure, that’s how I handle the chaos of daily life. 😉

      Reply
  194. Sarah

    August 23, 2015 at 8:38 pm

    My family had an awesome summer. I am a teacher and have the opportunity to work at my kids’ summer camp. I get to have fun and provide a great camp experience for my two kids.

    Reply
  195. Nicole Myers

    August 23, 2015 at 8:36 pm

    It was a special summer. It began with exhaustion and discouragement and has ended with energy and encouragement. My son attended summer preschool and I had so much fun making gluten free and mostly dairy free lunches for him with MUCH help from momables.com. I enjoyed the extra time with my 3yr old and 6yr old, who happened to begin piano lessons for the first time on a weekly basis. These two attended VBS and also took swim classes that they both passed successfully. We were invited on a playdate with another child’s mom who is Muslim and have opportunity to share and witness Jesus Christ! Its quite easy to witness because just in the past week, I’ve received wonderful HEALING from our Lord! Freedom from chronic fatigue, migraines, digestive issues and food sensitivities to name a few. Praising our God with a grateful heart. Thank you for all you help in the kitchen Laura!

    Reply
  196. catherine

    August 23, 2015 at 8:35 pm

    For the summer we didn’t take a vacation but the boys went swimming, attended birthday parties, did vbs and went bowling. It was good.

    Reply
  197. Kate

    August 23, 2015 at 8:33 pm

    We were away for most of May – we went to New England where me & my daughter spent about a week with my family, while my hubby drove all over Maine & Vermont with his parents, who flew in from California. After that we converged for a week at Hampton Beach. The ocean wasn’t warm enough for swimming, but we had a couple of days that were great for the heated pool! A good time was had by all.

    Reply
  198. Tami

    August 23, 2015 at 8:31 pm

    Had a great summer. Took the kids to places they’ve never been: San Francisco, the redwoods and a camp in the Sequoias. Also, turned 50 two days ago. Wish it wasn’t ending tomorrow.

    Reply
  199. Gwendolyn

    August 23, 2015 at 8:31 pm

    Summer went by quickly. We had a lovely beach vacation. And the kids had camp the rest of the summer – good times by all

    Reply
  200. Robyn

    August 23, 2015 at 8:30 pm

    We spent a wonderful week at the beach in Maine with both sets of grandparents. Our daughter loved the beach and the seafood.

    Reply
  201. Danette

    August 23, 2015 at 8:30 pm

    Looks like a great time at the beach! We went to the Oregon coast this summer and it was much cloudier, rainier, and cold than your trip, but we still had fun!

    Reply
  202. Melody

    August 23, 2015 at 8:30 pm

    It looks like a awesome beach trip. My family had a fun beach trip to the Oregon Coast. My kids favorite thing was playing in the sand and running in the waves.

    Reply
  203. Megan C

    August 23, 2015 at 8:26 pm

    We’ve also not had a planned summer this year. We decided 2 weeks before to take a week off of work. We spent the 1st half hanging around our house, and then drove the 8 hours to see grandparents in southern Oregon. It was so nice not to have a “scheduled” vacation and just plan each day when we woke up!

    Reply
  204. gayla allen

    August 23, 2015 at 8:25 pm

    Had a great trip to Kentucky with family to meet up with others for a family reunion! Great fellowship and great food!!

    Reply
  205. Holly Hepler

    August 23, 2015 at 8:25 pm

    School starts tomorrow for us!! We went to charleston SC beach on one trip and the West Virginia state fair! We also went to Atlanta Ga for the coke factory and aquarium!!

    Reply
  206. Kristi

    August 23, 2015 at 8:24 pm

    We went to a beach house with my mom and brothers. My 5 year old daughter talks about this place year round! She was the most happy girl! My 1 year old son was less than thrilled about the cool breeze and the feel of the sand. Great mini vacation!

    Reply
  207. Cindy

    August 23, 2015 at 8:23 pm

    We really didn’t take a summer vacation – planning to use our money towards a fall-break beach vacation this year instead. We did go to King’s Island in Cincinnati for one day though – maybe that counts? We’d love to win a duffle…

    Reply
    • Laura Fuentes

      August 24, 2015 at 7:20 am

      That totally counts 😉

      Reply
  208. Serena

    August 23, 2015 at 8:21 pm

    We spend the summer at Smith Playround and other parks, Philadelphia zoo and Penns Landing. My daughter really enjoyed camp this summer at Dream Camp and Camp Jamison. Canoeing is her favorite thing to do.

    Reply
  209. michelle eckhart

    August 23, 2015 at 8:20 pm

    Summer went too quickly!! We spent a lot of our time at our cottage relaxing.
    I would love one of those duffles to keep my youngest organized

    Reply
  210. Stacey

    August 23, 2015 at 8:20 pm

    Great summer. Too short but lots of family fun. I’m not ready for school to start but am ready for structure!

    Reply
  211. Marni

    August 23, 2015 at 8:19 pm

    We went on one vacation back home to visit the grandparents and family. Was so nice seeing all the cousins playing together and getting to know each other.

    We also did a ton of little day trips around the town. It’s always so fun in the summer as you get to have so much time to go everywhere with the kiddies.

    Reply
  212. Becca

    August 23, 2015 at 8:19 pm

    Looks like you had a beautiful summer. My family didn’t get to go anywhere special, my husband had to work. We did enjoy pool time and family time and I can’t complain about that.

    Reply
  213. Virginia N

    August 23, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    we had a nice summer , no vacation but family came to visit us. planning on having one to st louis zoo next spring

    Reply
  214. Amie

    August 23, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    I love all your postings

    Reply
  215. Cassie W

    August 23, 2015 at 8:18 pm

    We took a week-long family vacation/Dance nationals last month. It was fun but we didn’t get to do exactly what we wanted, so in a couple weeks, we are taking a mini vacation at a waterpark hotel!

    Reply
  216. Kara

    August 23, 2015 at 8:17 pm

    This summer has been a very impactful one. It started with the emergency removal of three of my wisdom teeth. And then progressing on to my five children’s activities! Our kids range from the age of 16 down to 1 1/2 years old. Our summer has been jam packed with my oldest daughter’s work schedule, and basketball, soccer, piano, gymnastics & caring for my ill father who is sick with cancer – but it has also been a very moving experience being able to serve others who are in need. So although we were unable to take a summer vacation this year – we feel very blessed to be involved in all the activities we are in, as well as being able to help those who are in need.
    We look forward to new recipes and ideas for this upcoming school year to help make our lives in the kitchen easier, healthier and FUN!

    Reply
  217. Nikki

    August 23, 2015 at 8:17 pm

    Loved the vacation post. Our family of 6 spent a week in Lake Havasu plus my oldest spent 7 weeks in Houston. And we love traveling throughout the year as well.

    Reply
  218. Leigh W

    August 23, 2015 at 8:17 pm

    We drove two kids (5.5& 2.5) from Georgia to Texas! It was crazy and we may never do it again but we are glad we did it ( we’ll fly when the kids are older). We had lots of great family time with our cousins while we were there!

    Reply
  219. Lauren Klemme

    August 23, 2015 at 8:16 pm

    I didn’t get a chance to do a lot that I wanted this summer… Blueberry picking, the zoo, etc. BUT, we spent a lot of time at the lake with the family, and that was priceless.

    Reply
  220. Sandra

    August 23, 2015 at 8:14 pm

    We have had a good summer though it’s just been too short! My mom came to stay for 3 weeks which was wonderful, and our daughter did summer ballet which she enjoyed and which helped her advance quite a bit in preparation for the fall. She’s entering 6th grade (we homeschool) and has grown a ton this summer – she is only a few inches shorter than me now! Thanks for the entry in the duffle giveaway – we would love the turquoise Sparkalicious one (our daughter’s best color and mine too!). 🙂

    Reply
  221. Ann

    August 23, 2015 at 8:14 pm

    I took my three kids (the youngest only two months old) to a family wedding In Bermuda! It was a great time, and baby passport pictures are adorable!

    Reply
  222. Janet

    August 23, 2015 at 8:13 pm

    I would love to win!

    Your daughter looks just like you.

    I spent most of the summer with my 16 mo. granddaughter.

    Reply
  223. Jill Page

    August 23, 2015 at 8:13 pm

    We tried paddle boarding this summer – our 6 and 8 year olds loved it!

    Reply
  224. Suzi

    August 23, 2015 at 8:12 pm

    Our summer was great! We started our summer with a vacation to grandma’s in Florida. We spent time on a beach and in a pool just relaxing! My kids got to experience a real day camp this summer and loved it!

    Reply
  225. Laura B

    August 23, 2015 at 8:10 pm

    We had a great summer, lots of outside family time!

    Reply
  226. Krystal Watson

    August 23, 2015 at 8:08 pm

    Our first day of school is tomorrow. My daughter is only 3, but I am in college and my husband teaches. We had a great summer, took a trip out to LA and went to Disneyland!

    Reply

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