Hey everyone,
I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to share a little personal update from this past week—it’s been a whirlwind, in the best way.
Our family just got back from a trip to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, where we stayed at an all-inclusive resort for our big annual vacation. It was a beautiful, relaxing getaway, and a much-needed change of pace. If you remember, last year we ventured to Japan—amazing, but definitely more go-go-go. This year, the boys voted for a slower, more laid-back experience, and Punta Cana fit the bill perfectly.
The resort itself was stunning—lush landscaping, rows of palm trees swaying in the breeze, and some of the most gorgeous pools I’ve ever seen. Truth be told, we ended up spending more time by the pool than the ocean. The beach was beautiful, but it had a different energy. Down there, the local culture is very entrepreneurial—plenty of folks offering jet ski rentals, cabana setups, excursions—you name it. Great if you’re in the mood for activity, but we were there to unplug. Me and my wife especially enjoy long walks on the beach, either early in the morning or late at night, and that’s just not something that really happens in that particular area. So, we happily parked ourselves by the pool most days with a good book (or a good drink), and just let the stress melt away.
One of the best parts was the abundance of food and entertainment. Being all-inclusive, there was no shortage of things to try—from seafood buffets to specialty restaurants. And every night there was something happening: dance shows, live music, and even a carnival-themed performance that felt like a mini Cirque du Soleil—really well done. The kids had a blast too; they went to a beach party one night that they’re still talking about.
We were also lucky enough to run into some friends who were staying at the same resort with their own family. It added an extra layer of fun to be able to connect and share parts of the trip with people we know. It felt like the perfect balance between family time and social time.
Now for some big personal news—while we were there, our oldest son, Noah, got engaged! He proposed to his longtime girlfriend during a private dinner on the beach. They had photos taken, and it turned out to be a magical, unforgettable moment for both of them—and for us too. We’re incredibly excited for this next chapter in their lives.
Our younger son also came along and brought a friend with him. They spent the week relaxing, swimming, and just enjoying the tropical vibes. One of the more unexpected highlights? Resort cats. Yep, there were a couple of friendly stray cats that seemed to have made the resort their permanent home. We all got a kick out of seeing them pop up around the grounds, lounging under palm trees or sneaking snacks near the outdoor cafes. They definitely added character to the trip!
In between lounging and family fun, I did stay lightly connected with work. I was able to jump on a weekly team call, answer some emails, and keep things moving while still enjoying the downtime. That flexibility is something I never take for granted.
We flew back Sunday night, and I have to say—customs was a breeze. No long lines, no hassle. Sometimes when you fly internationally, you hit that wall where several planes land at once and everything grinds to a halt. This time? In and out in minutes. A small victory, but it set the tone for a smooth return.
While we were away, a close friend stayed at our house to take care of the fur crew. Luna, our energetic new puppy, needed a couple of walks each day to burn off steam, but otherwise things went smoothly. Ted, our older dog, stayed true to form—chill as ever. We also had Ivy and JJ, Noah and Carly’s cats, who behaved themselves (for the most part). Big thanks to our friend for holding down the fort and making sure the pets were all happy and cared for.
All in all, it was a fantastic week—one filled with rest, connection, good food, warm sunshine, and some pretty major family milestones. Now we’re back home, easing into the week ahead, refreshed and grateful.
If you’re planning a trip or considering a resort-style vacation and want some tips or ideas, I’m always happy to share what worked for us.
Talk soon, and remember if you are in pain, call Shane!