Wrapping up another year of Hilton Head family vacation is always little depressing. This is a week I look forward to each year because it’s predictable in the best way. Some things I have grown to count on since marrying into this family (and its vacations) three years ago: little feet and voices filling the living room at 7:00 on the dot, long bike rides on through Palmetto Dunes, bumping into people as we try to maneuver through the kitchen at lunch time after mornings on the beach, early morning tennis matches that Drew and I never seem to win and the consternation that goes into planning the perfect color scheme for family pictures.
It’s remarkable that there is a house that can house all twenty-five of us, and I’m sure those days are numbered, but for now--it’s a special time. Another thing I appreciate about this week is the fact that everyone is able to go and come as they please during the day, but dinners and evening activities will be a family affair. Some people are out at the beach right after breakfast, while others prefer to sleep in or play tennis and don't make it out until after lunch. Some take long walks on the beach, some read, and others don’t stop boogy boarding until they are dragged out of the water. Everyone is understanding that beach vacation expectations differ from person to person and everyone wants the other to have theirs.
Families are unique, made up of individuals that have similar traits and commonalities, but each with personalities, interests and talents that make them completely their own.
The following tips are things that I tried to implement this week and might be of value to you while vacationing this summer whether it’s as part of a big family, or just you:
Find enjoyable ways to break a sweat each day: I know, I preach this a lot….but I’m a firm believer that when it becomes habit, you will start to reap the benefits. The time excuse shouldn’t cross your mind since we are talking about vacation from work, schedules, and many responsibilities.
Go for a morning walk, run or swim- I loved running through the resort on the huge sidewalks looking at all the beach houses. The architecture, the huge trees, occasional deer all made for perfect runs.
Bike to local spots- This isn’t an option on all vacations, but on Hilton Head Island it is and I took full advantage. We didn’t have a car, so I used my bike and trusty bike basket to bike to Whole Foods almost every day for random snacks and goodies. Drew and I also found a local brunch spot (Java Burrito) that we biked to one morning about 4 miles away from our house. We would almost always squeeze in an evening ride with whoever wanted to join.
Play Tennis (or any sport you enjoy)- Drew and I always play tennis with his dad and our brother in law multiple times during the week. We try to get out early and even though we rarely win a set, it’s great exercise and competition that we look forward to every year. A new event made it’s way onto the schedule this year-- 3v3 basketball tournament. We had four teams, a draft and an awesome evening of sweat-tastastic half-court games to 21 on evening. Fun, cheap and great exercise!
Join a Gym- This was the first year I opted to purchase a week pass at a local gym, Lava 24 Fitness that was 2.25 miles from the house. This was a nice way to change up my routine different equipment for a few days. This gym had an incredible section devoted to functional body movements with med balls, box jumps, TRX bands, sled pushes, and so much more. I usually biked or ran to the gym and got in some resistance training since I was getting plenty of cardio through other avenues. I did include one video circuit I did on a non-tennis day if you need some ideas.
Try to balance the inevitable treats and snacks with nutritious meals that will leave you feeling satisfied and on track. Vacations are not the time to have strict dietary expectations, nor should it be! However, I do think it’s possible to keep things in perspective and balance with a little effort and understanding of nutrition
Make a BIG salad for lunch
- Instead of sandwiches, chips, and tons of fruit--try opting for a big bowl of your favorite vegetables and some lean protein. I looked forward to it every day--I piled it high with raw green beans, carrots, bell peppers, cucumbers and either grilled chicken or deli turkey meat. I skipped dressing (fats) and carbs in an effort to save those calories for dinners out to eat or desserts. This is a simple way to allow more room for things like homemade banana pudding and froyo with everyone that I wanted to enjoy while still getting close to the right proportions of macronutrients (carbs, fats, and proteins).
I think this was my second salad because I devoured my first before the picture.....
Keep Snacks Protein-Packed
- Does anyone else feel like snacks should be freebies? Sometimes I literally forget I’ve eaten a snack 20 minutes later because small meals just shouldn’t count for much, right? WRONG. They add up…..and fast. When I am more mindful about snacking or have specific expectations for a snack, it keeps me fuller much longer. Some of my favorite snacks are Oikos Plain Greek Yogurt (stick it in the freezer for 2-4 hours) with a splash of stevia. It’s SO good! I also had a Good2Go bar or Quest bar every. single. day. They are portable and could go with me to the beach or pool and since they literally taste like cookie dough, I didn’t feel like I was missing out when everyone is digging into double stuffed Oreos and banana pudding leftovers.
Travel Sized Protein Packet blended with ice, cashew milk and some liquid egg whites
20% off orders of Good2Go bars with the code "moves"
ENJOY your vacation
- Most of all, don’t overthink, analyze or have guilt about your choices and risk missing out on the memories that come with food and fellowship for any short-term goal you might have. The beautiful thing about a healthy lifestyle is that progress doesn’t have to be perfectly linear and your habits will not be in vain if one week is a little off (or way off) track. The people around your dinner table are much more important than what’s on it, so give them all your attention and love. Your normal workouts, meals and routine will be there waiting for you when you’re ready…..
