We had such a great vacation as a family up in the Adirondacks. It is nice to have time to slow down and enjoy each other’s company and in the Adirondacks you can always do just that. I was intrigued by two signs that I saw around town in the cute stores that made me reflect on time with my family and friends. The first sign I saw was:
“In the mountains life slows down and friends stay longer”
This is so true. Life, and the craziness at home, is forgotten and time spent with family and friends is more important and enjoyable. It is so vital to take time out of busy schedules and spend time away with family and friends.
I enjoyed watching my 3 year-old have fun on the beach. Everything was fun and interesting. This vacation she was old enough to start doing activities at COTW, playing mini-golf and going to the craft shop to make things. She loves crafts, so that was one of her highlights. She also learned how to swim. She was so proud of herself and so were we. She loved playing in the sand and playing in the water with her Daddy while Mommy cheered with my son from the beach. Even though it might be a bit early, we are trying to get her to water ski! It is slow going because my daughter can never be rushed into anything. She needs to go at her own pace and will eventually do almost anything. She got as far as getting in the water with the boat about to go...and then she backed out. Oh well, soon enough she will be ready; after all she is only 3!
My little guy is such a blessing and he's so easy going. He enjoyed the beach and putting his cute little feet in the water. Once he got on the boat it was like magic…he was sound asleep to the hum of the engine. He is growing so fast and he is not so little anymore.
The other sign that made me stop and reflect was:
“Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away.”
This is so true. Christ gives us so many things, especially in nature, that can take our breath away and reflect on Him and His Creation. The Adirondacks makes it is easy to find beautiful moments and see the amazing hand of God in creation.
There were moments on our vacation that were precious time with my kids and my husband. My daughter was helping me plant flowers and she looked at me and asked if God will make them grow more and get really big? I said “He sure will and we will help by watering them and taking care of them.” It was a good small moment to talk about taking care of what is around us. Her young little mind is so curious and to stop and talk to her about small things was such a valuable time. She asks tons of questions and has plenty of ideas. They make me smile and at the same time remind me to be patient because she is experiencing life and all it’s complexities for the first time.
Another moment was the view from a special restaurant that we always frequent, Melody Lodge. The food is amazing and the setting is perfect. It is higher up on the mountain and you can see down to the lake nearby, Lake Pleasant. As we were walking in, my husband noticed how clear, calm and beautiful the lake was from our vantage point. We were able to get away for a dinner (just the two of us) and connect, thanks to wonderful grandparents who were able to watch our kids. Getting away to have dinner is not always easy so we take advantage of those moments together. Experiencing the beauty and the time together was awesome.
I will be the first one to admit that the whole vacation was not always relaxing and perfect (remember, I do have a 3 year old and a 7 month old!) but the moments that were, are the ones to remember and hold onto. Family is very important and finding time away from all the busyness of life to be with them is priceless. Not to be busy all the time on vacations but to just be, breathe and take in the moments.
Deuteronomy 26:11 ESV / 28
And you shall rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house, you, and the Levite, and the sojourner who is among you.
Psalm 127:3-5 ESV / 27
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one's youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.
