I've been thinking about vacations, and not only because it's that time of year. For many years, a combination of having four children, frequent layoffs, and family distance kept us at home over the summer.
During the 20 years I spent as a stay-at-home mom, money was tight, so trips were few and far between. I tried to keep the kids busy with activities, so summertime was fun, just at home in Texas.
Shortly after I began working, my husband was laid off. I took a job teaching summer school, eliminating most of my summer. I was able to fill the afternoons with fun, but between entertaining the children and cleaning, there was no relaxation time.
Never feeling financially secure, I kept working in the summer or taking classes to advance my career. This is probably the first summer when I haven't taken an extra job. We went to Philadelphia last week for my father-in-law's birthday. He turned 90! There was a great party, and he was so pleased to see us.
Although I'm currently at home, starting PhD classes, looking for a publisher, and trying to reorganize my house. I feel more relaxed than I have in a long time. The race to get things done doesn't seem so important anymore.
Another vacation , a family reunion with all my children and grandchildren, is coming up. Can't wait! I hope you can get into vacation mode. Soon!
Ok, you beat me, 2001 was my last vacation.
ReplyDeleteI am glad you are now getting these small breaks.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful that you were able to visit and celebrate with your father-in-law. Have fun with your kids and grandkids! Ours are coming next in 2 days! Can't wait!
ReplyDeleteWell I'm only going on my second year of no vacation and ur right it's not fun.
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