Tulip Time

We had a fantastic family weekend in Holland, MI. It was great to get away from our normal life. Ever since we bought this old house, we constantly have projects to do around the house. I feel like every weekend should be dedicated to house projects.

I am so glad we finally tore ourselves away from the "normal life" and ventured off to Holland. It was a 3 hour drive to our final destination. The kids slept the first half of the trip, making it very easy and relaxing.

We stayed at a little cottage outside of town. It was small and quaint, and perfect for our family of four. Our first stop was to the Dutch Village

where we sampled on fudge, cheese, and licorice. The Dutch like the really salty licorice...I prefer the less salty. We bought bags of it anyway for Ryan and the kids.

We loaded up on wooden shoes and delftware and we were on our way...We met up with the Seversons and the Christiansens for some pizza at Fricano's. The pizza was delicious and I think I ate the entire pie. I know that because Sarah made sure she was not eating more than me - impossible, really! That evening we watched the "Dutch Dancers" perform downtown.

The twins really got into it and began copying them. I am sure they get that talent from me.

The following day was absolutely perfect!

The tulips were in full bloom all over the city. We headed to Windmill Island where there was an actual working windmill and fields of tulips.

The kids rode on an authentic carousel from the Netherlands, which was a little slow and crickedy for my taste. The township puts on a parade every year and we headed toward the crowds for floats and marching bands.

We managed to squeeze into a spot on 8th street with a funnel cake in hand. Some of the bands wore wooden shoes, which look SO uncomfortable, but it made the coolest sound as they marched down the street.

Most of the little kids wore little Dutch outfits, which was very cute.

I think if we lived there, we would have the Dutch outfits for our kids too. I am SURE my little Holland would grow up wanting to be a dutch dancer!

After our naps, we headed to the local Carnival where the kids rode dumbo and another carousel. We ate elephant ears (think LARGE scones) and Ryan won a few toys for the kids at the ring toss.

On Mother's Day, we headed to brunch at the

Windmill Restaurant

and ate a hometown breakfast before heading back to Chicago. Mother's Day was fun because I received the best gift of all - sleeping in (and cards, gifts, and lots of kisses)!!!

It is hard to be home after such a fun weekend away. The little ones never really slept. It was a true vacation of staying up late and fitting everything in. I love to be with my little family. We have the best time together. I would not be surprised if we head back to Tulip Time next year.