La Cucaracha Part 1

Last week we spent our days basking in the sun in Playa Del Carmen. It is one of my happy places. You get everything there: culture, history, great weather, gorgeous surroundings, powder sand, stunning water, good food, adventure, there isn't anything not worth loving. We went with most of my family, with the exception of a few party poopers. It was a week with hours spent relaxing, exploring, and playing. It was amazing.

If any of you know my dad, it isn't a surprise to you that we spent the first night in town, at the grocery store. We couldn't have left without causing a problem or two,

or without two shopping carts full of food. We wouldn't be Spikers otherwise.

The next morning we woke up and headed straight to the beach, and that's where we stayed the rest of the day. The beach our resort is on is absolutely amazing. The water is clear and warm, the sand doesn't get hot on your feet, and you have people serving you drinks all day long while you rest under a cabana.

My brother, Chris, finished the CA BAR exam the day before we left for this vacation. If anyone needed it, I would say Chris and Mari did. They have both been working so hard over the past three years. They are awesome.

Our little Micah dude spent the first half of the day climbing this coconut tree. He is one athletic four year old.

Countless games of volleyball were played all week long.

My pops and my baby Luke

There were also countless wrestling matches EVERY DAY of this trip. There were many x-wrestlers, mma fighters, and aspiring tough guys with us on this vacation. It seems the boys were either playing volleyball or doing this at any given moment.

We enjoyed drinks from the swim-up bar at happy hour. One good thing about not drinking alcohol is that your drinks on vacation are much cheaper than if you had them loaded with tequila.

That night we got to witness the most incredible lightening storm any of us had ever seen. It was breathtaking and hours long. We started on our balcony but moved to the beach so we could be more comfortable. When it got a little too close for comfort we headed back up to the rooms. Be sure to catch a glimpse of it by watching the video at the bottom of this post. It will not disappoint.

Handsome Patrick, all grown up, with my Grandma Rita.

We enjoyed some meals in town, while other nights we cooked in.

Me and Granny Goose

The following day, we took little catamarans out to sea. I LOVE being on the water. It is another one of my true happy places. The water was so bright and clear, even way for out in the ocean. This is what our resort looks like from the water.

The boys on their boat,

me and Mari on ours.

I have a cute dad. He is the best.

All my boys:

So, my dad did this to himself. I'm still not sure I know why but I think it's awesome and hilarious.

However, these two did not do this to themselves. This is the result of two separate wrestling matches. I wasn't kidding, they did this a lot. Behold, Patrick:

and Luke:

Every day when we came up to shower we found our towels folded into different animal shapes.

We played tennis four of the nights we were in Mexico. It was so fun. Josh and I never play together at home because we are on such different levels it isn't very fun. We had so many people in our group that there was someone for everyone to play with and we all had a blast. Here are Cody and Josh against each other playing doubles.

And again, another beach day was enjoyed by all.

Christoph and our beautiful grandma.

WATCH THIS!!!!!