Hilton Head Island

Ah, spring break - that annual pilgrimage to sun-drenched beaches. Beaches filled with hard-bodies and endless supplies of alcohol... Yeah, maybe 20 years ago!

Over the winter, a family friend who is a full-time resident of HHI, SC (that's Hilton Head Island to the locals) invited the family to spend spring break with her. With free accommodations being just barely affordable for us, we eagerly accepted. The countdown began and on Good Friday (aren't they all good?) we loaded up the family truckster and headed out on our 16-hour adventure to South Carolina.

With their Nintendo DSs and PS2 in tow, the kiddies actually did an excellent job in the car-only a handful of "are we there yets" (and those were toward the end) and I don't think I had to threaten to pull the car over at all.

Upon safe arrival, we quickly settled in to "island time" and roamed the beaches looking for dolphins, sea shells, and jellyfish. Yes, days filled with leisurely bike-rides, miniature golf excursions and kite-flying were just our speed. Add spectacular food, the "Salty Dog," dolphin, and alligator sightings and everyone was content.

Of course, there was that small matter of the 16-hour return drive looming at the end of the week. But even that wasn't so bad. And, even when you've got your own room with a king-size bed and attached bathroom, there's nothing quite like sleeping in your own bed.