Years ago, I began my career as a nonprofit professional while raising three active young boys. While nonprofits usually mean you work as many hours as we need you, the same goes for almost any path you choose. Between work, school, and our family’s needs, it seems we always run out of time before we run out of things to be done. Looking back, it seems that my personal theme song should have been Tomorrow. We will do that tomorrow. I can hear the tune in my head as I type. Being a long way down that path, I want to encourage everyone to find the time— no waiting for tomorrow. Do the things that matter to you and your family today!
Should I Stay?
Last week, after a rough few months of health issues, one of my sons asked me to join his family on an eight-day trip visiting four states. While the idea was tempting, I initially thought of all the reasons why I could not go. What if I am not up to the activity, and it’s so easy to just stay home. After all, I have projects to do here. Then a week before the trip, I woke up thinking…if not now…when? So, my flight booked and suitcase packed, it was soon time to fly!
Should I Go?
Fourteen family members made the entire trip, son and wife, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, two grand-sons-in-law and we added extended family along the way. All eight days were filled as full as they could be. We drove into Yellowstone National Park where, much to everyone’s delight, we were greeted by a giant American Bison. We picnicked as we awaited the amazing sight of Old Faithful shooting high into the air. Driving the scenic and a bit terrifying Grand Teton Pass at moments with my eyes closed to reach Jackson Hole, Wyoming. From three years old to seventy-seven, we delighted in a two and a half hour raft ride down the Snake River. All of the things I had wanted to do for years but simply did not make time.
Picnicking under the trees, cheering as we watched Old Faithful fly high, hiking to see the majestic water falls in Yellowstone, such happy moments. It was such a gift hearing the little ones laughing when our raft hit small rapids, truly memories we will all remember. The trip was so worth the effort to make it happen.
Enjoy It!
Life was always so busy, but looking back, while I did find some time to enjoy it, it could have been more. So, I encourage each of you, take a breather, grab a picnic basket, and enjoy the outdoors. Perhaps, a great camp out. Food is always better cooked outdoors and do not forget the s’mores! If a big trip can’t work right now, no problem, find a park or take a hike— just take a break, it’s good for the soul.
I recently saw a post on social media from a woman wishing she had made a trip when she was younger and stated, “Now, at 70, I just can’t make the trip.” I smiled a bit remembering how this seventy-seven-year-old woman laughed and smiled two weeks ago bumping down the Snake River. Oh yes, it took a week to recover but it was worth the effort. Take a breather, have fun, make memories and once you retire, do it all again!
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