Finding Rest and Joy on Vacation
It is officially summer- time to dust off the swimsuits, bring out the pool towels, and fill the calendar with loads of fun things for our families to participate in.
With many of us expecting breaks in our normal routines over these next couple of months, we want to talk about the importance of using our vacation time in ways that bring peace and joy into our lives.
One of the most valuable things we can do with our free time is to simply enjoy moments of happiness and gratitude. When you do something you love or share a positive experience with someone you love, take an extra moment to reflect on that and to cherish it. Philosopher Josef Pieper once wrote, “Happiness... even the smallest happiness, is like a step out of Time, and the greatest happiness is sharing in Eternity.”
During everyday life, how often do we say things like, “There are just not enough hours in the day for x, y, or z” and “If only I had time, I would pray more, spend time with the kids, read my book, have a date night with my husband-” the list goes on. This summer, before going into a break, a day off, or a vacation, we want to encourage you to think about those things that you wish you had time to do normally, and do them. Make memories, share new traditions, and always keep God in your itinerary.
In addition to that, we encourage you to take time to not “do” much of anything. Simply resting, thinking, and appreciating life around us can be far more valuable than doing something productive or efficient.
In this vein, Pieper shares that, “Repose, leisure, peace, belong among the elements of happiness. If we have not escaped from harried rush, from mad pursuit, from unrest, from the necessity of care, we are not happy. And what of contemplation? Its very premise is freedom from the fetters of workaday busyness.”
Whether you have a big trip planned or just have the means for a quiet day off at home, let this be your inspiration for your summer vacation: escape the busyness, embrace freedom, do things that bring joy, reconnect with the people you love, and most importantly, make time for God.
Click here for great articles, books, and resources to check out on your vacation this summer.
5 Summer Vacation Ideas for Any Budget
There are countless ways to spend quality time with family on vacation, and they don’t necessarily have to break the bank. Here are five ideas for summer vacations for any price range!
City Staycation:
Budget: Low
Description: Explore your own city or a nearby town as if you were a tourist. Visit local attractions, museums, parks, and restaurants. Many cities offer free or low-cost events and activities, making this a budget-friendly option. You can even pack your own food to take with you on the road! Take advantage of any discounts or passes for local attractions.
Camping Trip:
Budget: Low to Moderate
Description: Enjoy the great outdoors by camping in a national park or a local campsite. Many parks offer affordable campsite rentals, and activities like hiking, wildlife viewing, and stargazing are free.
Beach Getaway:
Budget: Moderate
Description: Spend a few days at a family-friendly beach. Look for destinations with affordable lodging options like vacation rentals or budget hotels. Activities like swimming, building sandcastles, and beach volleyball can provide endless fun without breaking the bank.
Amusement Park Adventure:
Budget: Moderate to High
Description: Visit a popular amusement park for a fun-filled family adventure. Look for package deals that include tickets, lodging, and meals to save money.
Rent an Airbnb with Family
Budget: Moderate to High
Description: Rent an Airbnb on a lake, in the mountains, or near a cool city for a great family vacation. With so many different rental options in different price ranges, the possibilities are endless.
Meal Planning Seminar in Virginia
Home Unlimited Virginia, this one’s for you! We are heading to the Longlea Conference Center on Sunday, July 14th from 1-3 pm for a Meal Planning Seminar. Learn how to plan your meals ahead of time, minimize stress, and enjoy more time with your family as a result!
Online registration will be closed on Friday, July 12th at 5:00 pm but same-day registrations are welcome! If you plan to register on-site, please bring a debit or credit card as cash will not be accepted, and email the hostess to let her know that you will be registering on-site.
