I love to travel. Some destinations leave an “I’m glad we went, but no need to go again” feeling. And then others have me thinking about a return visit before arriving home!
So what creates our connection to certain locations? Is it vacation memories from childhood? The environment? The people? The accommodations?Â
I grew up in the high dunes section of Avalon. That explains why I am drawn to the woods/beach combination (Kiawah Island, SC and Carmel, CA are 2 favorites that come to mind). And we live on a low key island year round, so Lana’i (Hawaii) with a population of 2,800 seemed just right.
I often hear tenants and owners say they take a deep breath as they cross over the bridge into town- instant relaxation. Avalon and Stone Harbor have the qualities that bring families to our island year after year.Â
Those of us who live here understand…and appreciate our unique surroundings.
Irish Roots
This picture was taken in Belfast, Northern Ireland in 2008.  My husband was disappointed that the restaurant didn’t sell logo t-shirts. The owner said that’s an “American thing”!
On my father’s side, my grandmother was from County Clare in the Republic of Ireland, and my grandfather grew up near Ballymena in Northern Ireland. A real mixed marriage!
They vacationed in Stone Harbor each summer when their 6 children were young, and eventually built a house in Avalon in the 1950’s. A family business brought the grown sons and daughters (with spouses and young children)  from Philadelphia to Avalon shortly thereafter.
After visiting the beautiful windswept coast of Northern Ireland, I can better understand my grandfather’s love of the shore. We have sand in our shoes… and salt water in our blood 🙂
Sláinte!