My husband and I have been married for 12 years. One of the reasons we're still happily married is because we both like our routines and to stay within our comfort zones.  So while I try things like speed skating, there are other things I won't budge on.  Like our vacations. For a long time, we went to my inlaws cottage every summer...until they sold it and forced us to try something new.  For the last three years, we've gone to the same place at the same time.  We know it works - the kids are happy, we're happy.  It's comfortable.

But, as I've discovered, there's a good reason to try new things. New memories and experiences. 

A few weeks ago, I was asked if I wanted to go to the Delta Rocky Crest. The Rocky Crest is a resort up in Muskoka and is home to the Rocky Crest Golf Club. I don't know much about golf but when my friend Lisa told her husband, also known as The Daddy Caddy, where we were going, he was, to say the least, completely jealous. Apparently it's a must-golf, golf course. 

We set the date, packed our suitcases, pulled the kids from school early on a Friday afternoon and drove up.  The weather was overcast and cool but we were hopeful it would clear up. It didn't.  But in the end it didn't matter.

After a three hour drive, we checked in to our room nestled among the trees. Here's what I loved about it.  It wasn't a room, it was a suite - the boys had a separate room from us plus there was a small kitchenette with microwave, fridge, sink and dishwasher.  If you're a parent, you know what a coup this is.  It means you can bring up food for meals and snacks. My kids are grumpalicious if they don't get breakfast as soon as they get up - so to be able to eat in the room and not have to wait for everyone to get ready?  Awesome.

What's there for families to do at the Rocky Crest?  Let me take you through a few of the things that we did. 

We took the boys fishing for the first time. My husband handled the worms because me doing it just wasn't happening.  And when my husband left for awhile, the nice staff member at the dock did the worms for me.

And did they catch anything?  Yes.  Fish upon fish upon fish. Seeing the excitement on their faces as the reeled in their first catch ever made my heart burst with joy.  I even got in on the action.  And that nice staff person at the dock who did the worms for me? He removed the fish and threw them back into the water too.

After the fishing, we dropped the kids off at Amishaw Sports Club and Kids Camp. I had Son No. 1 be my eyes and ears and told him to report back to me. In the three hours they were there they made crafts, played outside and went on a pirate themed scavenger hunt throughout the nature trails. Both boys gave it a two thumbs up. 

And while the boys were at camp, hubby and I snuck around to the back of the resort where spent an hour kayaking on this beautiful lake.

Then we went to the Abma Spa where I got a pedicure and he got a massage and we were off to pick up the kids.

Since there was still time before dinner, we went on a cruise of the lake, spying on the all the million dollar cottages perched upon the rocky shores. I discovered I'm a total cottage voyeur.

And that I need to win a lottery.

After dinner, we hung out and roasted marshmallows by a bonfire. 

The next morning we woke up ready for the day! I was scheduled for the 8:00 a.m. yoga class on the dock. And it was amazing....     to watch as I ate my buffet breakfast. 

Then we took the boys out on the lake - first on the pedal boats and after a bit of convincing, I managed to get Son No. 1 to try kayaking.  It was one of those proud parenting moments when your kid tries something outside his comfort zone and really loves it.  Hmmm.....trying something outside your comfort zone.  There may be something to this...

We hung out by the pool for a few hours before it was time to head home. I was actually surprised at the amount of family activities they have and even though they were at the start of their busy season, the resort didn't feel 'packed'. 

I would be remiss if I didn't talk about Chef Patrick Louch and the food at Rocky Crest.  And I will....in a whole entire other post.  Because he managed to do something that I have been unable to do in my entire parenting career.  It was nothing short of miraculous.

I think the sign of a truly family friendly resort is if you can go up when the weather isn't so good and still have a fantastic time.  And we did.

So the question remains....would I go back to the Rocky Crest with my family for a vacation?  Absolutely. I wouldn't hesitate to spend a weekend up there again.  We have a new comfort zone to add to our list.

Disclosure: Although our entire weekend at the resort was paid for this is my honest feedback on our experience.  And you seriously need to come back and read about Patrick Louch - the dude is amazing.