Since we moved to the farm a few years ago our summers have been spent close to home, building and renovating and, of course, taking care of our flock.
The kids have been fully involved in helping us, and keen to do so. We would do afternoons at the lake, and take the odd day “off” to head out on the sailboat. It was stay-cations to the extreme.
But 4 years into Island life the kids (and the hubby) are wanting a little more adventure. I am still pretty content to spend my days on the farm, but they want to EXPLORE.
And thankfully we are closet to some of the most amazing locations. Vancouver Island is a hop across on the ferry, and from there, the world awaits.
But, travelling as a family has become challenging. First off, we have farm animals to get to bed safely at night, a goat to milk, and all sorts of other menagerie that need caring for. Second, they kids are at the age and stage where they don’t always “mesh”.
So, we have begun one on one adventures with them. Overnight trips with 1 parent and one child to explore places THEY want to see, and have experiences unique to their likes and interests.
My husband and daughter had an amazing time visiting Horne Lake Caves, and overnighting in Qualicum Beach. We also did the Parksville Sand Sculpture competition with the two girls, enjoying the warm beaches there as well.
Hubby has gone camping off our sailboat with our son, and is planning an “Epic adventure” to Tofino as well.
The girls have plans for back to school shopping in Victoria (a harrowing adventure of its own) and would love to experience a real live “spa” with their mom.
We are balancing day camps around the 3 kids so there is always a change in dynamic and everyone has an opportunity to do what “they” want. This is making it a lot easier to balance the family needs when we are all together.
But of course, Travelling comes with it’s challenges.
Before you head out on a great adventure, make sure you’re well prepared, especially when kids are involved – we’re hoping for less “are we there yet?” and more “wow, this is amazing!” You’ll always want to pack things like a GPS system, snacks, sunscreen, and sun protection, first aid supplies and good music!
To get you ready for your family adventure this summer, here are some very practical products to put in your travel toolkit. Enter below to WIN a fabulous gift basket (valued at apx $50) filled with Church and Dwight products that will make your summer adventures a little easier to manage! Even if they kids are arguing the whole time.
- GRAVOL™ Natural Source™ GingerLozenges – curb motion sickness for you and your kids (over the age of six) with these chewable lozenges – convenient, portable and no water required! GRAVOLTM Kids Quick Dissolve Chewables are a great option for your little ones two years and over! (GRAVOLTM Kids Quick Dissolve Chewables are not included in giveaway).
- OxiClean™ Foam Pretreat – spills and stains are bound to happen on road trips, treat them the day they happen and then throw the item in the wash a few days later when you make it to your destination!
- ORAJEL™ Anticavity Fluoride Toothpaste 119g, in either Super Mario™ or The Ultimate Spider-ManTM or My Little Pony™– with road trips come snacks and fast food so ensuring your little ones are brushing is of the upmost importance.
- Vitafusion™ Women’s and Men’s Complete Multivitamins –are geared towards providing essential nutrients specifically needed by men and women to maintain their health, in a tasty gummy that you can take without water, perfect for on-the-go!