The view from my hotel room was intriguing, the sky was mostly blue, yet a thick fluffy cloud hugged one of the most well-known bridges in the United States. I sat there, just staring at it in amazement. I never saw anything like it. My heart was pounding with excitement as my friend and I set out on our day’s adventure. Morning quickly became afternoon, and afternoon soon became evening, and evening slipped into darkness. That night I fell into bed with a full heart after exploring some incredible sights, consuming some delicious food, and soaking up the California sun. I was tired, but it was a good tiredness - the kind that lets you sleep well physically, and energizes you mentally for the next day!
My memories of my trip to California are so vivid - just like they happened yesterday. It was my first adult vacation as a single woman. I remember the feeling of “coming alive” as if someone breathed new life into my soul. I discovered that adventure, for me, is restful, exciting, and broadens my horizons.
Bite-Sized Truth: Through this experience, I learned that vacations do not always need to look or be the same from year to year or person to person. My friend was intentional about planning our trip together with both of our interests in mind. We worked stressful jobs, where revitalization was imperative.
Bite-Sized Definition: Vacation is about breaking our day to day routine, in a form that is restful for us (and those we are with). This working definition has carried over into my family and it’s revolutionized what vacation means to us. It's inclusive of all individuals who are going - from my husband, to my daughter, to our aging parents. Each person has value and say into the vacation discussion. My daughter needs to rest and refuel in her own way (think high energy activities). Just like my parents might in a different way (think lower energy fun).
Bite-sized Tip #2: In order to create a meaningful and restful vacation we need to communicate, listen, and accommodate the needs of everyone (as much as feasible).
I’m learning to lean into my family’s needs and plan accordingly. Stay tuned for tip number 3!