Something Important to Me: By Kelly Groome

                                                       

                                                              

    Growing up family trips and going to LBI have always been some of the most important things in my life. For the past few years now I've been helping my mom plan our family vacations and figure out where the best place to go would be. I always look forward to getting out of Sparta and going somewhere new and different, as I have had a huge passion for travel ever since I was little. Lately, my family has been branching out and finding new places to go, however, one of our favorite and most frequent places to visit is LBI. 

    My family and I have visited the small island of LBI which I am sure almost everyone in New Jersey has heard of, every year since I was born. Whether it be going for 3 days or a week or longer I always look forward to the time we spend there. Each year we do the usual traditions; riding bikes, mini-golfing, getting ice-cream, eating seafood, etc. My family has even labeled me the best at mini-golf, which I gladly accept. One of my other favorite traditions is waking up early and going to the Chicken or the Egg which is a local diner. I go with my dad and sisters(My mom hates diner food), and always have a great time.

     Even though I am not always the biggest beach person and tend to enjoy the city better, laying on the beach is always nice and relaxing at LBI. I always listen to music or enjoy a book while watching the waves crash, and hopefully get a good tan. Going in the ocean or playing paddle ball with my sisters is something I always look forward to. Another tradition we have at LBI is taking our annual photo in front of the lighthouse. This photo is from when I was about 4 years old:

This photo is from last summer(It was raining pretty bad):

Having these family vacations is something I will always remember and I am so grateful for all of the amazing memories we have made!