Why We Make Family Vacations A Priority

Kids grow up fast!  And, that’s one reason why I’m glad that we have made family vacations a tradition. 

The husband has fond memories of annual treks to Minnesota and other travels. . . to California and Colorado for example.  I can recall two family vacations from childhood—Florida and Pennsylvania—but do remember my grandparents taking me to other nearby destinations for day trips.  When I got older, I traveled with student groups and friends.  The husband’s tradition of family vacations has seeped into our family, even though the destinations have changed.

Here are some reasons we have made family vacations a tradition, a priority:

• Memories!  Wow—we have lots of them and they are shared.  The stories and photos last a long, long time.
• Fun!  Family vacations are a great time to let loose and have some fun.  The family that plays together stays together.
• You have to be “present.”  At home, it’s easy to get distracted with chores, duties, responsibilities, as well as escapes such as TV, computers, and phones.  On vacation, the mere fact that you are most likely removed from those distracters means that you can be “present” in the moment to listen, connect, and enjoy.
• Seeing family members in a different light.  At home, I’m the problem solver, but on vacation it can be any one of us.  The husband has dealt with baggage handlers and hotel services and the boy has navigated queue lines and menus.
• There is some learning, too.  Destinations require research and the whole family gets involved learning the ins and outs as well as helping with the planning.

Family vacations don’t have to break the bank and can happen during any time of the year, any season.  And, if your family can’t agree to a destination—compromise.  Now, go ahead, make some memories!