EpilogueWell, this may be it for awhile. I am trying not to say the word "permanently", but, I'm not sure.
This has been a long, wonderful run of spring break trips for my family. Connected with a few trips when I was a teen, there are a lot of memories associated with spring break trips to Myrtle Beach. But, we may have come to the end.
I know we will not be back next year, for two reasons. One, our spring break for next year is scheduled to begin the last week of March. We just don't want to take a chance with the weather in MB for that week. I know, it could be gorgeous, but, it could be cool, also. The second reason is that next spring will be Jack's senior year of high school. Our last family spring break together.

Now, it would seem like MB would be the perfect idea, to complete the many great years that we have had here as a family, but, since the break is early next year, Amy has suggested we go out with a bang, and we are looking at something in the Caribbean. At the very least, Florida, but I would expect our break next year to be on an island somewhere.
So, what after that? Well, I have to be honest, Griffin is not a "beach" person. So, when Jack is away at college, will we come to MB? Most likely not. I'm sure we will go somewhere warm, but it will probably be to locations with more history activities (Griff is big on history) - or non-beach related activities. I'm guessing a couple of trips to the Orlando area?
I don't want to say never, because who knows what the future may bring. But this has been a long, wonderful run of trips to an area that was FANTASTIC to bring our younger boys to, and now they are getting all grown-up.
I can't begin to tell everyone here at Funbeaches what a tremendous experience this has been for me personally. A place to communicate about a place that is dear to our hearts, helping one another have better vacations, and sharing memories of a place that is so meaningful to us all.
Patrish....thank you. Your inspiration to create such a place for us here was brilliant, and your hard work and dedication are deeply valued by me, and I'm sure everyone else that is a part of this community that you have created.
To everyone else - and I don't want to name names - as I am sure I will leave someone out - thank you, too. Your wisdom and experiences have helped my family have better vacations, and you have helped me deal with my pre-trip obsessions!
I hope that I have contributed back in some meaningful way. I will share one last thought with each of you....
I feel that memories are our greatest treasure. Myrtle Beach is a memory maker. It is a place for each of us to find our own personal treasures. Good hunting!
I hope to be back. I know there will ALWAYS be a tug at my soul to peek in every March, for the rest of my life. But, until that time, I say goodbye for now.
Rick Bates
Bath, NY