Looking out my window I see three very happy grandchildren. Why are they so happy? The answer is simple. They are visiting Nana and Papa. It doesn’t really matter where we live. It could be in Florida or Kansas. What makes them happy is not how much money we spend on them or the amount of activities that are planned. They are happy because they are on vacation; they can just play, dream, and go fishing! Too soon these children will become adults and take on more responsibilities. We know the drill, the pressures of our jobs, raising a family, and paying the bills . Unfortunately vacation for grownups takes on new meaning. We must plan the perfect vacation, filling our vacation days with busy schedules of “fun” activities. I am not against having fun things to do on vacation, but I believe that this special time away from the normal everyday routine should be a time to relax, restore our senses, and revisit the child within us.
If I could give my grandchildren anything, I would give them the ability to find joy in the simple things in life, to take a vacation anytime they need a break. Smelling the flowers, the scent of the ocean air, or listening for the call of the birds takes little time and is free for the taking. My list could go on and on. One of my favorite activities during a vacation is to be able to read a book all day and not worry about fixing dinner or cleaning the house. How about you? What are your favorite things to do on vacation? Can you leave the worries at home and truly be a child again?
The Magic in Believing 