We recently returned from Spring Break. It was wonderful to be together as a family - and to be with my parents. Four adults and two children is a great ratio when you are on vacation. Especially when the two children are non-stop swimmers, wave jumpers, water slide riders and sand diggers. As with all 5- and 7-year-olds, my boys do not stop.

I happen to love this particular hotel; it just might be my favorite vacation destination. I first visited with my then 90-year-old grandfather when he needed someone to accompany him to a convention. I was happy to spend that cherished trip with him.

We have since returned to this same hotel three times as a family, each time bringing with it special memories. My older son remembered the waterslides and Oreo smoothies from our last trip; and I have no doubt our younger son will remember this trip as well.

In the true spirit of Family, we spent a week together with few work distractions or obligations. That does not happen often in our household. It doesn’t happen in many homes, unless you make it a priority.

My husband travels a lot for work. I have been busier than normal over the past 18 months - writing and now traveling to share the story of my book. But what remains most important to us is family; raising our children and providing for them the roots that will someday - hopefully - allow them to soar.

Taking an exciting trip for Spring Break isn’t the foundation of these roots, but what it represents and what we make it to be, is what is most important. Spending time with family. Leaving the cell phones behind so our children have our full attention during the day. Watching my dad play chess with my older son - and having it be an even match. And watching my mom teach my younger son how to body surf. These are treasured memories.

It is the little things we did that I know my children will remember, cherish even - like spending time with their grandparents, just as I cherish the time I had with my grandfather at this same hotel. What is special is not the location, but the time together and the memories created.

As we approach this holy time of year with Easter and Passover, may we remember to celebrate the little things in life, our time with family, our blessings and our memories created.