We vacationed just an hour from home. It was more relaxing than our bigger trips.

For their vacation, the author opted for a house only an hour away from their home instead of embarking on elaborate family trips. After a hectic spring filled with college graduations, high school graduations, and a wedding, the author and her family were exhausted. They decided to simplify their vacation plans and found a house that offered a slower pace and space for decompression.

With five kids aged 17 to 21, the author knew they needed a chill vacation with their family. The ideal location would have on-site activities, enough space for everyone, and a lack of nearby tourist attractions. After careful consideration, they found a house just an hour away that met all their criteria.

During their stay, the family enjoyed simple activities like cooking burgers, eating watermelon, playing volleyball and shuffleboard, taking afternoon naps, and reading books. They also went on a hike near a river and visited a favorite spot from the author's husband's college days. The author's only concern was that the trip might not feel like a real vacation due to its proximity to home, but they realized that the lack of external pressures and distractions were what truly made it a perfect getaway.