Summer is traditionally the time for a little rest and relaxation. But this year, things seem a little different. My friends with jobs are working harder than ever; those who don’t have jobs are in heavy search mode and are counting every penny. High gas prices and a sputtering economy will keep many of us close to home for a “staycation” this summer.
But as my friend Tricia Molloy just reminded me, seeing exotic locales isn’t the real point of a vacation. Molloy, a speaker and author of “Divine Wisdom at Work,” just got back from a Mediterranean cruise with her mother, and wrote in her weekly e-newsletter about the souvenirs she collected along the way.
Molloy bought some Venetian glass jewelry in Murano, but the more important keepsakes stemmed from breaking away from her normal routine and disconnecting from news and technology. She was reminded of what really matters — “the joys of simplicity, mindfulness and gratitude.”
Slowing down to savor a meal at an outdoor café in Florence, marveling at beautiful architecture, spending time with her mother — these are the souvenirs worth keeping.
Georgia may be short on cathedrals, but it has plenty of sidewalk cafes, natural wonders and educational attractions. If approached with an adventurous attitude and a little planning, a “staycation” can be exciting and refreshing, said Sue Rodman. She recently penned “100+ Free and Cheap Things to Do in Atlanta with Kids,” based on experiences with her three sons. She also blogs about their adventures at www.fieldtripswithsue.com.
With a little imagination, you don’t even have to leave the house, said Elisha Bailez, artist and owner of Peek a Boo Rooms, an art and children’s furnishings company.
“One of my kids’ favorite summer activities is to break out the sprinkler and the slip ’n slide and hook up the snow cone maker on the front porch. We get the neighbor kids and everyone runs around in their swimsuits, inventing races and other activities. We call it our redneck water park,” she said.
Or, if you have to attend a convention or travel for work to an interesting location, why not take your spouse and kids with you? “Bizcations” are a growing trend and a convenient and affordable way to combine business with pleasure.
“A lot of industry conferences are scheduled in the summer and hotels encourage you to bring the family, with special rates, child care and activities,” said Theresa A. Schroeder, community affairs director for Turner Construction — Southeast Region.
For years, she sought work/life balance by taking her children along when she attended an annual conference at a Jekyll Island resort.
This afternoon, I’m planning a mini- vacation with my two-year-old granddaughter. We’ll sit on the back deck and blow bubbles. My job is to blow them — since she hasn’t gotten the knack yet — and hers is to chase and pop them. We call it “going to Bubbleland” and it’s a very giggly place. For a few hours, deadlines will be forgotten and I’ll be the better for it.
Whatever your plans for the summer, I hope you’ll take time to make some memories; they make the best souvenirs.
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