At this time of year it is hard to slow down and enjoy the season.  We are busy fighting crowds while searching for the perfect gift. We wrap presents, bake cookies, and prepare ourselves for a few special days. It is difficult to get everything done, and even harder to enjoy the season.

This year, I wanted to simplify the holiday season. I also wanted to take more time to relax. So, I decided to skip all of the gift buying. Instead, I spent a weekend at Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort with my extended family. It is located in Utica, IL.

After all, What better gift is there than spending quality time together as a family?

I have five nephews age six and younger, and my cousins have five more children between them–that’s ten children total.  They are adorable and well-behaved kids. However, it is hard to get all of us together. Finding activities that all ages, from children to grandparents, will enjoy is challenging.

We stayed in one of the resorts three story luxury cabins that can accomodate up to 18 people.  Only twelve of us from my immediate family were able to stay overnight. We slept in the cabin, and it was very comfortable.  It was so nice to all be together-it felt like a weekend long slumber party!

We spent the day playing in the indoor water park Grand Bear Falls.  It is the perfect place for families!  The grown ups had as much fun as the kids!

There are two large slides for adventurous older kids and brave adults. The lazy river, wave pool, and small slide are fun for all. A baby pool and a water playground cater to smaller kids.

The water was a comfortable temperature. It was nice and warm in the waterpark. I am certain this is no small feat in the middle of December.

Everyone had a blast and played in the water all afternoon.

After dinner we enjoyed the Enchanted Forest indoor amusement park.  It was really fun.  The smaller kids played in the bouncy houses and merry-go-round.
The bigger kids were able to ride a rollercoaster, tilt-a-whirl and several other fun rides.  It was like an indoor carnival.
As an over protective aunt, I appreciated the diligence of the staff. They measured and enforced the height requirement for the rides. This ensured the safety of the children. The staff was excellent at persuading the little ones. They convinced them to go on rides that are more appropriate “and more fun” for them.

We have decided to make this an annual event for our family. We plan to stay even longer next year.

From the moment we arrived, at Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort,  everything was beyond our expectations.

The cabin was much larger and more comfortable than we imagined.

The waterpark is the perfect size to accomodate guests who are staying at the lodge.

The staff was excellent and made sure we were enjoying our visit.

Best of all, it is close to home!  Right in our own Backyard–which means no long car ride for the kids!