Is That Deductible? Our Annual Beach Week at Simpli SoHa

A Magical Tradition

There's an undeniable magic in our annual family beach week at our short-term rental, Simpli SoHa, nestled in the picturesque coastal town of South Haven, Michigan. Each summer, as the days grow longer and warmer, Ellen and I, along with our children, find ourselves eagerly anticipating this cherished time together. The excitement builds as we pack our bags, load up the car, and embark on our journey to this idyllic lakeside retreat.

This week-long escape is more than just a vacation; it's a treasured tradition that brings our family closer and creates lasting bonds. It's a time filled with unbridled joy, hearty laughter echoing across the shoreline, and the kind of precious memories that linger in our hearts long after the last grains of sand are washed away from our feet. From lazy mornings sipping coffee on the porch to adventurous afternoons exploring the quaint shops of South Haven, every moment is an opportunity to reconnect and create new shared experiences.

The charm of Simpli SoHa, with its cozy rooms and inviting atmosphere, provides the perfect backdrop for our family's annual seaside adventures. As we gather around the fire-pit overlooking Lake Michigan, build sandcastles, and splash in the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan, we're not just enjoying a getaway – we're weaving the fabric of our family's story, one sun-soaked day at a time. I particularly savor watching the sun set every evening, the endless trails for biking and walking, and the beauty of God’s creation.

Ellen and I especially enjoy the fact that this was the fulfillment of a long-held goal—to use our assets to create an annual family gathering place that would become a source of shared experiences for each of us as we take a break from life's hardships and support one another, with no agenda and no purpose other than loving and supporting each other in our family.

Beachside Bliss

Our days began with the simple pleasures of family togetherness. Under a large, welcoming tent on the beach, we arranged our chairs in a circle, creating a cozy hub of activity. We spent hours reading books, engaging in lively conversations, taking refreshing dips in Lake Michigan, and playing spirited games like pickleball and spikeball. The sounds of laughter and the sight of everyone enjoying themselves created a beautiful tapestry of family joy.

Creative Keepsakes

One of the highlights of our week was our visit to the Express Yourself Pottery Barn. Here, we tapped into our artistic sides, painting and personalizing pottery keepsakes. From plates and cups to wall hangings, each piece was a unique expression of creativity. Watching the artistic talents of our family emerge was a joyful experience, and these pottery pieces will serve as lasting reminders of this special time together.

Celebrating Milestones

This year, our beach week was especially significant as we celebrated several important milestones in our children's lives. Our oldest son John and his wife Cheyenne are expecting their first child in December—our first grandchild! We surprised them with a heartfelt baby shower, complete with gifts and well-wishes. John, who is preparing to start his third year of family medicine residency, has decided to pursue a career in Emergency Medicine and is exploring job opportunities in the South. It's an exciting and transformative time for them, and we couldn’t be happier.

Academic Achievements

Our daughter Hannah reached a significant milestone in her academic journey, culminating in her graduation from Liberty University with a degree in Creative Writing. This achievement represents years of dedication, hard work, and personal growth, showcasing her passion for the written word and her commitment to honing her craft.

Adding to the joyous occasion was the presence of Hannah's nearly-fiancé, Ryan, who joined us for a portion of the celebratory week. His attendance not only underscored the importance of this event but also provided us with an opportunity to witness firsthand the profound positive impact he has on Hannah's life. The genuine happiness and radiant smiles they shared were testament to the deep connection and mutual support that characterizes their relationship. As we commemorated Hannah's accomplishment with a blend of pride, nostalgia, and excitement, we couldn't help but feel optimistic about the bright future that lies ahead for both Hannah and Ryan. Their partnership, built on a foundation of shared values and aspirations, promises to be a source of strength and inspiration as they embark on their journey together. We eagerly anticipate the milestones and adventures that await them, confident in their ability to face life's challenges and opportunities as a united team.

New Beginnings

Jessica and her husband Garrick are embarking on an exhilarating new phase in their lives as they take steps towards purchasing their first home in Indianapolis, a bustling Midwestern city known for its vibrant culture and growing economy. This significant milestone represents not only a substantial financial investment but also a profound emotional commitment to putting down roots in their chosen community.

During the week, the couple dedicated considerable time and effort to the crucial task of reflecting on their realtor interviews and their selection process, a decision that will greatly influence their home-buying journey. We were overjoyed to offer our support and guidance during this momentous process, recognizing the importance of having a knowledgeable and trustworthy professional to navigate the complexities of the real estate market.

Meanwhile, our son Caleb continues to thrive in his new role as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), a position that allows him to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others while gaining valuable healthcare experience. His passion for his work is evident in the enthusiasm he brings to every aspect of his life. During his leisure time, Caleb took full advantage of the beautiful weather, engaging in various beach sports with his siblings. His infectious energy and zest for life were on full display as he frolicked in the sand and surf, creating lasting memories and strengthening familial bonds.

Career Aspirations

Sara, our devoted and ambitious daughter, is on the cusp of embarking on her final year of nursing school, a significant milestone in her academic journey. Having recently completed her summer employment as a technician at a pediatric psychiatric hospital, she demonstrated her commitment to gaining hands-on experience in her chosen field. This challenging role not only enhanced her professional skills but also deepened her understanding of the complexities involved in pediatric mental health care.

Sara's unwavering dedication to her studies and her chosen profession serves as a constant source of inspiration for our entire family. Her tireless work ethic and passion for helping others exemplify the qualities of a compassionate healthcare professional. It was a true delight to have her join us for a week-long visit, during which we created cherished memories together. During her stay, Sara actively participated in various family activities, sharing stories from her experiences and engaging in meaningful conversations about her future aspirations. Her presence brought a renewed sense of joy and unity to our household, reminding us of the importance of family bonds amidst our busy lives. As we look forward to supporting Sara through her final year of nursing school, we remain proud of her accomplishments and excited for the bright future that lies ahead of her in the noble field of nursing.

Home-Cooked Love

Ellen, as always, was the heart and soul of our family gatherings, her culinary prowess shining through as she meticulously prepared and cooked all the meals for the entire week. Her unwavering dedication and passion for cooking were evident in every dish she crafted, infusing each bite with love and care. The aromas wafting from the kitchen and the beautifully presented plates transformed our meals into truly special occasions, creating an atmosphere of warmth and togetherness that epitomized the essence of home. Her culinary creations ranged from comforting classics to innovative dishes, catering to everyone's tastes and dietary needs with thoughtful consideration. From hearty breakfasts to fuel our beach adventures to elegant dinners that brought us all together at the end of the day, Ellen's meals were the thread that wove through our shared experiences. We are endlessly grateful for Ellen's selfless efforts and the joy she brings to our family through her cooking. Her culinary talents and the love she pours into every recipe have become an integral part of what makes our beach week so memorable and cherished. The flavors, aromas, and shared moments around the table have created lasting memories that we will treasure for years to come, all thanks to Ellen's remarkable gift for bringing people together through food.

Personal Reflections

For me, this week was also a time of personal reflection. Transitioning from the daily grind of clinic work to the rhythms of the business world has been a challenge. The different cadence requires a shift in mindfulness and perspective. My family’s unwavering support has been invaluable in helping me navigate this transition, and their encouragement has helped me find a new balance.

A Grand Finale

We concluded our week with a spectacular grand finale: a trip to Wrigley Field in Chicago to watch our beloved Chicago Cubs play against the St. Louis Cardinals. The Cubs won, and we all reveled in singing "Go Cubs Go" at the end of the game—a moment of pure joy for a die-hard Cubs fan like myself. Ellen had special Cubs jerseys made for all of us, with personalized names on the back: "Dad" for John, "Mom" for Cheyenne, "Poppi" for me, "Nonni" for Ellen, and "Aunt" or "Uncle" for everyone else. It was a fun-filled trip to the big city, and we delighted in each other’s company and the baseball game.

The Deductible Details

Reflecting on our wonderful week, it’s important to consider what was deductible. A meal and multiple STR purchases for mid-season repairs and upgrades were deductible expenses. However, most of the family time, including the baseball game and ceramic pottery creation, were non-deductible expenses. Although it’s technically not deductible, using our STR asset for a personal week, at no cost other than the cleaning fee saves us well over

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Here’s to making the most of every moment—deductible or not!