Mel and I have been trying (without success) to plan a vacation for our 10th wedding anniversary. With two rug-rats who need constant care, the chance to get away for a week is looking grim. With the idea that something is better than nothing, we loaded up the kids, got in the car, and headed for Indiana Dunes State Park. The park is about 2-1/2 hours from our house and we decided that if we timed it right, everyone could get the naps they needed.

One of the things we like most about parenting is watching our children react to the sights and sounds that we take for granted. While Lake Michigan is nowhere near as big or grand as the ocean, I think a 3-1/2 year old would have a hard time telling the difference. Greta's first reaction to seeing the huge lake and miles of sand, and hearing the crash of the waves, was of the purest form of joy. It made all of the "Mommy, I need to go potty," requests worthwhile. I'm sure that Dirk won't remember this trip, but he had fun romping in the sand nonetheless. There is nothing quite like learning to walk with sand between your toes.