Creating memories in the backyard.

I , as a mother of three children have always looked forward to summer vacations ever since my first born started going to school. It didn't matter how hard or the extra work I had to put in towards planning, packing ; I looked forward to those times we spent as a family, the getaways from the daily grind. They weren't all necessarily elaborate, fancy trips each year. Some years, we travelled internationally when time permitted and some years, they were mere road trips within our state or to neighboring states visiting friends or family. But, year after year, I treasured the times spent together , each summer had a story and like they say, travelling is the best education one could get and I wanted my children to have that education.

Last year, however, I was disappointed as we couldn't get away due to scheduling conflicts. This trip , had it happened would have been special as it was their last final year of school. I was sad, heartbroken. But then, magic happened. No, we were not able to get away ; however my daughter suggested that why don't we take a trip in our own backyard and pretend that we were visiting a national park. Now, wait a minute, did she say a trip to the backyard? Did it matter? No, as long as we were going somewhere. Oh, how I loved that idea! I jumped at it , got dressed, got our bikes out and then we visited our backyard , actually a friend's. It was filled with buttercups and dandelions and I was happy just being out there, spending quality time with my daughter and making new memories. I was happy, she was happy that I was happy and we were all happy.

In short, it doesn't have to be fancy, elaborate vacations; the last minute, spur of the moment trip to the backyard will also be forever cherished amongst other memories. It was not the destination but the time together that mattered. Have you done anything like this? If not , what is stopping you?? Ramblings on this day!!

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