OneGutsyMom: First Family Trip in Zambales

4.10.2013

First Family Trip in Zambales

Our dream to say hello to again to the sand, sea and sun finally happened last weekend. Thanks to hubby's employer who sponsored this annual company outing. It was our daughter's first beach trip so you could imagine how more excited we are preparing her swimwear and all. I even thought we couldn't join the last minute due to my wild err hectic work schedule but I'm thankful my boss granted a weekend off despite crazy deadlines come Monday. I worked 16 hours prior that day which took most of my energy but having a job that believes in your competence and acknowledges your essence in the team is beyond being grateful. I may be tired or even half awake on our way there but hey, it's all in the mindset!

A sunshiny Zambales welcomed us, perfect for our brighter than the sun yellow tops. This is also our first time to wear matchy matchy colors and I think we should do this more often.

It was quite a long bus ride - something I've been avoiding that's why we never had a trip before this. We arrived exactly lunch time so we had to wait until past 3pm to take a dip, at least not that harmful from sun rays. At first, Daphne was hesitant to step on the sand. She looked really cute taking extra effort not to slip her feet. Aliw much! Upon seeing some kids swimming and playing with the waves, she almost wanted to jump and join the little girls. But no, she wouldn't let go of her Daddy's hand. We are really happy to enjoy the years while she's very much dependent on her parents.

We also capped off the afternoon with a lovely sunset facing Capones Island. I'm surprised Daphne still has the stamina to mingle despite waking up at 5am.

That following morning, the three of us woke up around 630am to maximise the remaining hours of the trip. So far, no complaints from my daughter who's used to waking up at 8. Good job, baby! I was once again mesmerized by the magnificent, luscious green, mountainous view on far left. Philippines is indeed blessed with natural beauty and this is just one of them.

Summer is all about vibrant colors and we purposely aim to define it. I got these cute sand toys and baby float from Toy Kingdom for a very reasonable price. Spot Nemo!

This is my most favorite picture. Caption: "Nandito lang lagi ang Daddy sa tabi mo, anak.." Mind you, hubby was happy and the same time emotional on this trip. He even proposed to have as much as family trips as we could. Well... I'll do the budget in Excel format and let's do it!

I am obviously a proud Momma here. My two year old did not develop fear of water! She kinda want me to carry her and ditch the floater but it went fine when she realize she can move her feet freely while in it. Just a friendly reminder though, do not keep a distance even with a floater. Always, always, secure your child.

It was one quick escapade so we still hope to organize another budget-friendly out of town trip soon. By the way, here's one lesson learned from this trip:

As a couple with full time jobs, we sometimes find it challenging to take care of our little one on our own. When I say challenging, that is if and when there is no one to seek for assistance despite flat energy. I really wanted to doze myself with some good sleep but managed to resist and prioritize her needs first. We can't blame ourselves if we thought we we lost the "magic" because our hands are mostly on top of our office keyboard rather than holding our kids' fluffy little hands. So for parents who's not used to travelling without a helper, why not try it once in a while? Put on some toughness. It will definitely make the trip more fun and that earns you twice as much bonding with your kids.