I have long wanted to write a love letter to Las Vegas and now I just so happen to have a blog due at the same time that I am fresh off a trip, so here we go! Vegas is easily one of my favorite places on Earth. There is just an exciting, electric energy about this bustling, colorful, historic city in the dessert that I can't help but gravitate towards. It is not uncommon to see visitors from all walks of life and every continent, speaking every language imaginable. Whatever is entertainment to you - shopping, gambling, shows - you can just about find it all in Las Vegas! We lived close by when I was younger so I have some early memories of the Treasure Island pirate show, going to the games at Excalibur, and I even went to the Siegfried & Roy white tiger show one time.

I got to kick off this year's traveling early and in a very special way. My best friend was getting married at an all inclusive resort in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico! It was determined early on that my husband would stay home with our two boys. While I was originally bummed out about going solo, I eventually decided to turn the trip into the ultimate "momcation."

Perhaps one of the best investments for my family has been the Texas State Parks pass. For $70/year we get admission waived anytime we want to visit a park for the day and discounted camping rates. As part of our family resolution to retreat more  - I booked us at Mustang Island in November, Garner in February, and most recently Big Bend Ranch in March.

For my husband's birthday this year, I was determined to plan the perfect date night. At first, this task seemed easier said than done. You see, it was his birthday so our regular dinner and a movie wouldn't do. We have a great local music scene but my husband is deaf in one ear so, any concert or loud venue is typically not enjoyable for him. Also, my husband is the type who does not like to spend money, least of all on himself. So what's a wife to do?

In my last post I shared about the two family reunions and vintage camper find that led up to our big Summer road trip.  My husband and two boys drove round trip from New Braunfels, TX to Boise, ID.

A few weeks ago the family and I loaded up to go camp at Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, Texas. This park is known for having fossilized dinosaur tracks on the river banks. Boy had we been looking forward to this trip! My 8 year old is a dinosaur connoisseur of sorts and has been dying to go ever since he heard about it last year.