Like a lot of families these days, it seems that our lives have become both very hectic and media-driven (between iPads, iPhones and television). So, we agreed that it would be good for us to take our son(6) and daughter (9) to a place where we could slow down, turn off all of the electronics, appreciate one another's company and get back to nature. After a lot of online searching, we came across Andrew's wonderful property on Spring River Lake. The booking was very simple. Andrew answered all of our various questions prior to our arrival and we were warmly welcomed by Andrew and the property's excellent caretaker, Bob.

The cottage was immaculate with everything a family of four could want. The kids loved their attic bedrooms, while we enjoyed the first floor master bedroom. The large family rooms was a great space to sent on the couch and read, talk or or play games as a family, while the kitchen's eating area provided great views out to the lake.

We spent our days exploring the lake on the various kayaks provided. Our kids have never kayaked, but fell in love it immediately and paddled for hours on end each day on the kid kayaks that are very easy to maneuver. My daughter dove for mussels in the nearby cove, as we all swam and jumped off the floating dock. A boathouse on the beach provided everything we needed, from life jackets to fishing poles, to toys for the kids to play with. The water was clear and refreshing (not too cold, not too warm). The nearby Tunk Mountain provided a nice hike, while a short kayak trip across the lake the the Jumping Rock provided a bit of adventure.

On some nights, the cottage was cool enough to light a fire in the wood-burrning fireplace, which served as an excellent source for s'mores. Most nights we cooked our own dinners, but got takeout one night from the nearby 182 Pizza (which was awesome), and freshly made chicken tenders from the Irving gas station (I know, food from a gas station, but believe me, the chicken is handmade on-site and really good).

Bar Harbor and Acadia are just a short drive away, so it's easy to make a day trip and still be home to watch the sunset. One night we walked on to the beach to see the million stars overhead, and even saw a few shooting stars.

I was afraid that the reality of the cottage and site wouldn't live up to my mental image of the perfect family vacation. Luckily, it exceeded it. We can't wait to come back.