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✈️ From Jet Lag to Road Trip: Our May Getaway to Utah & Las Vegas
After returning from my emotional and meaningful trip to the Philippines back in May, I barely had time to unpack before jumping into another adventure. Just one day after landing back home, I joined my husband’s family for a celebratory getaway to honor two birthdays—my husband’s and my sister-in-law’s. Over the years, this trip has slowly become a cherished annual tradition. It’s more than just a celebration—it’s a reason to pause, reconnect, and spend intentional time together as a family.
This trip was extra special because it marked our toddler’s first real road trip—one that lasted longer than an hour. As parents, we were both excited and a little nervous. Would he enjoy the ride? Would he nap? Would we survive the tantrums? Spoiler alert: we did, but not without a few memorable moments.
The plane ride to Las Vegas was... let’s just say, unexpected. Mid-flight, our little one had what we now lovingly call a “rainbow scene”—a surprise vomit episode that caught us off guard. There were tears, a mini meltdown, and a scramble to clean up and change his clothes while 30,000 feet in the air. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was real. And somehow, we managed to laugh about it later.
Once we landed, the road trip to Utah began. I wish I could tell you all about the scenic drive, but truthfully, I slept through most of it. I was the front seat passenger, and after only two hours of sleep the night before, that nap was non-negotiable. I woke up groggy and disoriented, unsure of where we were, but grateful for the rest. Sometimes, motherhood means catching sleep wherever and whenever you can.
Despite the chaos and exhaustion, the trip was filled with joy. Watching our toddler experience new places, seeing family come together, and carving out space for celebration amidst the busyness of life—it reminded me why these moments matter. They’re not always perfect, but they’re ours.
After wrapping up our scenic adventure in Kanab, Utah, we continued our family vacation with a lively stop in Las Vegas. This leg of the trip was all about celebration, connection, and creating new memories—especially as we honored two special birthdays: my sister-in-law’s and my husband’s.
🏖️ Poolside Bonding: Cousins, Giggles, and Splashy Firsts
One of the sweetest highlights was spending time at the pool. It was the first time our baby boy truly played and laughed with his older cousin in the water. Watching them splash, giggle, and bond was a heartwarming moment that reminded me how simple joys often become the most cherished memories. There’s something magical about pool days—sunlight dancing on the water, the sound of laughter echoing, and the feeling of time slowing down just enough for us to soak it all in.
🍣 Birthday Sushi Tradition: Sapporo Revolving Sushi House
To celebrate my husband’s birthday, we returned to one of our familiar favorites—Sapporo Revolving Sushi House in Las Vegas. I think this was our fourth visit, and while the wait times can be a bit long, we keep coming back for the sushi rolls we love and the reasonable prices.
This time, I went all in on my salmon obsession. Between the salmon sushi rolls and the side orders of salmon sashimi, I was in full-on food coma mode—and I regret nothing. By now, it’s no secret: I’m a salmon lover through and through. There’s just something about the buttery texture and clean flavor that hits the spot every time.
🥩 Shabu Celebration: Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House
For my sister-in-law’s birthday dinner, we headed to Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House. I’ve actually written a separate food review blog post about this spot, but here’s a quick summary: the food was delicious, rich in flavor, and perfect for a celebratory meal. We did experience a few hiccups with the service—minor delays and some confusion—but overall, I’d still recommend it for the quality of the food. The wagyu was tender, the broth flavorful, and the experience felt special.
💖 Reflections on Family, Food, and Shared Joy
This Vegas stop wasn’t about the glitz or the nightlife—it was about family. About watching our toddler light up in the pool, about honoring birthdays with meals that felt familiar and festive, and about continuing our journey of togetherness. These are the moments that make travel meaningful—not just the places we go, but the people we share them with.
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