Nine Things I Learned While on Vacation

There is never a good time of day to drive through, around, or near Washington, D.C.

Charcoal grilling really tastes better than gas grilling.

Feeding 14 people is hard work.  When it's your turn to cook, ask for help; when it's not your turn, pitch in anyway.

Bring at least one more book than you think you're going to be able to read.  The beach is no place for a Kindle.

If you are taking people pictures on the beach at the right time of day, it's okay if they're not wearing white shirts.

Although white-shirts-on-the-beach is a nice look.

Waiting for turtle hatchlings to surface is all the evening entertainment you need.

If your college roommate is home when you're driving through her town, stop by and visit, even if it's just for a little while.

And even though you've just spent the Best Week Ever with most of your favorite people in the world, there really is no place like home.