Destination: 59 Winthrop Street: Happy Anniversary Paul and Sheila

Last year in the end of August we spent a wonderful week in Middleton, RI celebrating Jay's parents' 20th anniversary. Paul and Sheila, were kind enough to invite us, Jay's sister Kris, and her husband Kevin to celebrate two decades together under one roof. Sheila found an amazing house that was built nine years ago (I may be a little off on the date -- but I'm sure it's less than ten years old). The house couldn't have been more unique. The entire construction was based around old wood beams that the owners' had savaged and shipped in from Tennessee. Everywhere I turned I found myself mesmerized by the construction and overall decor. Jay and I are currently drafting new plans to renovate 59 Winthrop Street (I'm only kidding -- although the thought has crossed my mind more than once since returning yesterday. Although the house was stunning, nothing was better than having quality time with our family.

Paul and Sheila's generosity always amazes me. We enjoyed unbelievable food at numerous restaurants, but nothing could beat what Sheila was able to put together once she sets foot in the kitchen. Kris did an unbelievable job seeking out exciting places to explore. Between wine tastings, enjoying the beautiful mansions nestled along the shore while trekking around Cliff Walk (the Parker clan walked the terrain five mornings in a row), taking in the sights on a Harbor Cruise, window shopping in downtown Newport, jumping aboard a helicopter for an aerial view of RI, getting a sneak peak of Newport's rich architectural history on a tour through many of the famous side streets, experiencing everything Fort Adams has to offer, finding time to play a little put-put, and who could forget soaking up some sun on Eastern Beach.

As you can tell our week was eventful. While we filled our days with plenty, our evenings were just as much fun. Nothing compares when spending some downtime with your family. Whether we were playing intense games of Pictionary, watching the Red Soxs, or just catching-up over chocolate good times were always had. As sad as we were to return home, the vacation couldn't have been better. Congratulations Paul and Sheila! We love you and can't thank you enough for letting us enjoy your anniversary with you. Our goal now: to find a way to spend another week together next year -- if you can handle being surrounded by your family once more. This time we won't wait 20 years!

Here are a number of slide shows from our trip. I can't thank Kris enough for sending along so many family photos. Your the best!