Better Tan & Better Attitude

I'm back.

Back, in the words of my roommate and travel companion, with "a better tan and a better attitude."

I'm convinced that vacations are absolutely necessary, and travel is good for the soul.

We get so caught up in the daily routine and stresses of life.  It's important to disconnect, take a little breather, and recharge your spirit once in a while.

So, Jenna (travel buddy) and I did exactly that.  We left real life at home and headed to Destin, Florida, for five days of a much-anticipated and much-needed vacation.

The sand was white, the water a perfect blue-green.  It didn't so much as drizzle any rain while we were there, and since it was mid-May, kids were still in school, so it wasn't at all crowded.  

We stayed at the Embassy Suites at Miramar Beach, which was a great choice.  All we had to do was cross a little street, walk across a short boardwalk, and we were on the sand.  You could see the ocean from the hotel.  But, we didn't have to pay beachside prices.  Not to mention scoring complimentary breakfast every day!

All day we were on the beach, soaking up the sand, sun, and sea, and reading.  Lots and lots of reading, which we both love and have trouble finding free time for back at home.  

We saved money by making sandwiches for lunch in our hotel room, and then after a day on the beach, we'd head out for a later dinner.  We had delicious dinners every night, but our favorite spots were Pompano Joe's (incredible seafood, great views right along the beach, fun atmosphere) and La Famiglia (delicious Italian that included fresh seafood-- an amazing meal, cozy, authentic little spot). 

The one thing we didn't do was check out the nightlife after our semi-late dinners, but hey, who says we can't read every night and go to bed by 11PM if we want to?  It was our vacation, after all!

Basically, in case you couldn't already tell, we had a wonderful getaway.  I'm rejuvenated and ready to return to life as usual.

Even though I'm already experiencing beach withdrawals...

You can check out my other vacation pics on Instagram.