Grandma Has Got the Vacation Blues
What are these feelings?
Bittersweet are the feelings I am experiencing now. The wonderful week spent at the beach with our family is now history. We cannot turn back the clock and return to our grand-babies as they headed for home. Have you ever been unclear on how you feel after a fabulous time with loved ones?
The anticipation of leaving the day-to-day routine in the office mounted as we packed our bags for vacation. We had all planned this trip for months and were looking forward to building sandcastles on the beach with the kids, splashing in the pounding surf and beach-combing for treasures washed ashore.
What are these feelings or is it just me feeling sorry for myself? Sometimes I wonder if I am ever just happy to be in the moment. Do you like your peace and quiet more than the hustle and bustle of your little grandchildren?
Personally, I love both. I would like to build my ideal life around having them around and in my life more often. Matter of fact, I think I will do just that…build my part-time business so we can have more freedom to travel to visit more often. Do you have a clear picture of what you want your ideal life to look like?
To recap our family vacation for you will help me settle back into my routine here in the office. It will help prepare me for tomorrow morning to be able to hit the floor running and be as productive as possible.
Are you ready to enjoy what we just did? Hold on for a whirlwind week’s vacation at Copalis Beach, Washington.
Day 1 – twelve hour drive
Waking to the ring of the alarm clock is not something I have had to do for over seven years. As an auto transport broker working out of my home, I simply wake to ringing phones. When I get plenty of rest, it is easy to pop out of bed, grab a cup of coffee, my “grab and go” meals and start working. Today though, the alarm signified the beginning of our week’s vacation with all of our family.
After one final check of the house, we hopped into the loaded truck, travel mugs in hand full of hot coffee. My purse was full with my grab and go meals. Being prepared helped me remain true to my weight loss plan even while traveling. In spite of my family kidding me the whole trip, I stuck to my guns and plan. Wait until I share my results with you on day ten!
Hitting the freeway at 5:30 AM commuters were already driving to work. It had been years since I had been up and out of the house this early. It was sad to see most of them frowning. It appeared they were not happy they probably hate their jobs and boss. It made for great conversation though as we chatted about the freedom we have found working from home.
Twelve hours on the dot we found ourselves parked in the resort parking lot. Several spots over we saw our daughter’s minivan and then the kids appeared. Three of the four came running when they saw Grammy, Poppy and Uncle Danny. Excited chatter filled the quiet air of the beachfront complex and there were plenty of hugs and kisses, too. After checking in, we all settled into our temporary homes and started planning dinner out. We were all exhausted and did not feel like cooking, sounded like a plan to me!
Day 2 – acquainting ourselves with area
Our timeshare sat in a remote, wooded area that was so tranquil you could not help but relax. When we walked out our front door, you saw emerald green pine trees that appeared to reach the sapphire skyline with ease. The sound of the ebbing creek was as soothing as those recorded CD’s of different waterfalls only better. The breeze blew through the tall pines providing yet more soothing sounds to ease our tense shoulders.
Out our back door and from the upper lanai you could see miles of grassy dunes. The beach was about ¼ mile from our rooms, just right for safety for the kids. The short hike gave us a chance to teach the kids about the various birds, bugs and wildlife that inhabited the area. Seagulls flew overhead as if looking for a handout from below.
The office staff gave warnings to keep the kids always in sight as coyotes; bear and cougars frequented the woods and grassy dunes. The surf was dangerous and sneaker waves were deceptive…my, this was going to be work.
The icing on the cake was the heated pool, sauna and Jacuzzi. There were canoes for exploring the creek, floaties for the kid’s protection while swimming and snacks in the vending machine inside the office. Hot coffee was plentiful while visiting with the office staff and hearing stories of past visitors. Customer service was superb at the Surfcrest Resort. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for tranquil relaxation in the Pacific Northwest.
To learn more about the ocean, animals and surrounding area we visited the local Interpretive Center. An all-volunteer staff whose passion is evident in their work taught us about whale’s baleen, creel and plankton. We learned why beavers chew on logs. Do you know why? (Hint – there are three reasons…). We were so impressed with what we learned and saw we returned days later for another few hours and more lessons.
Join us next time as we continue to share our recent trip to the Washington coast and our vacation with our family.
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Helping Turn Back the Clock,
Carla J Gardiner
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Carla Gardiner is an auto transport broker, dispatcher, health coach and a fiery baby-boomer grandma. Her passion and purpose lies with the people she works with daily; the client, dispatcher, broker and truck driver. Her frustration within the industry has birthed a new division of her company; one to properly train, encourage and mentor others in regaining their health while building a part time business, too. What did you think?
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"Very well put. I've been with a health and nutrition company for over 26 years and I understand exactly what you are going through. I shiver to think what my health might be today at age 68 had I not stuck to my guns as far as practicing what I preach. Yes, I fall off the wagon regularly but my daily routine life reflects taking care of my health. That way I can keep up (somewhat) with my 7 grandchildren. You keep it up, Carla". 
"For most people the thought of venturing out there in pursuit of your dreams, in a place outside of your comfort zones is just what stops them. But I could sense your excitement not resentment in going against the competition. In planting your stake and truly making a difference in the clients experience. That's ultimately what matters, the rest just falls so easily into place. Thanks for that reminder"! 
Carla, I’ve got to say that I LOVE your focus on the joys and challenges facing women over 50. I’m definitely in that camp! I’ve been inspired by your candor, practical ideas, and refreshing determination to joyfully tackle life. The hours we’ve spent on the phone, in person, and through social media have enriched my life immeasurably. YOU are one Fiery Grandma, and I love your style! 
I have known Carla Gardiner for 6+ years. We met at a business training for bring business online. She is a business women at heart and willing to do the hard things to make the results show up. I have watched her run a business, work a job and take care of her family. She is a go getter when it comes to putting in the work to build her business to the level of being able to enjoy her grand kids.
She is the example that age is not a limit it is a tool for sharing knowledge to those she empowers to use their own skills and talents. Excuses are fuel to push her to learn and apply. I have seen her scared to death about implementing new technology and rock it out despite the learning curve.
I love watching you grow into your greatness Carla! Don’t slow down. 
"Carla, you are a model for me to follow. I love your site. And, I like what you have to say - very kind, very gracious. I have to say though that nothing in my life has ever been crystal clear". 
"I've known Carla for 5+ years and can tell you that she has lived every bit of this and more. We shared tears and laughs and hard work....you will enjoy getting to know Carla."