When we were getting ready for this trip, one of our boys said "I can't wait until we get to go out for breakfast and order eggs." We do eat eggs at home, but something about ordering them from a restaurant while on vacation appealled to him. We make big plans for amusement parks and big experiences, but it really is the little things that they remember.

1) Stopping to take in the little moments. An hour ago we found a tiny gecko on our patio wall. We brought all the kids quietly out to see him. Then, a cruise ship just made its way out to sea past our resort. They were so excited to watch and take pictures of the huge lit up hotel on the water. These are little things they will remember.

2) Let them make the decisions. I am guilty of making all the plans, and herding the family from one thing tot he next. No time for changes in the schedule. I am trying something new. Very little scheduliing. What should we do today? When they get to help set the schedule, they are so happy. And when our schedule is loose, we can stop for impromtu ice cream, or Starbucks. Okay, maybe that one was my choice.

3) Ask the locals. Although we are currently in the land I like to call Vegas for kids, and there is no shortage of world famous sights and activities, I like to occasionally trek to some lesser know (by tourists) and yet great things. The local zoo might be fantastic, or the aquarium, or the children's theatre. Locals know what is good, and they even know a few tips and tricks about the tourist sights, too.

4) Find a great hotel. I never cared much about the hotel I stayed in before we had kids. And when we travel without them, I still don't. But with them, the hotel is waaaaay more important. They love staying in hotels. And we spend more time in the room in the evening. So we take more time searching before booking. and we spend a tiny bit more money if we have to to get one that has lots of room, a nice feature for the parents (like a deck with a view) and a pool. Never underestimate the value of the hotel pool.

5) Have fun! I mean like relax, take it easy, loosen up on the rules, give in a little more, stay up a little later, sleep in a little more. You are on vacation, afterall.