We just had the greatest vacation…and I thought I would share a few things with you (well, mostly the future you(s))…because if I do it now, it may have more of an impact than when I’m a grandparent and you roll your eyes at any wisdom (yes, wisdom) I might try to share.

1. It’s never the ‘right’ time. We probably could have waited until you were older…chances are you won’t have vivid memories of this trip…but you know what…there is never the perfect time for anything. We made great memories this summer. You both got a chance to make your own fun as siblings…and you got along so well. Dad and I got a chance to think about our future and which path might lead us down the road to having the best quality life. Bottom line – this was the right time for us to spend time as a family and have a fun adventure.

2. Let your kids adapt into YOUR life…not you into theirs. Perhaps a little controversy around this one. We, for the most part, have been big believers in having you guys fit into the life we have created. You have both proven that kids are adaptable. Sure, you like routine, and yes, things went off the rails on occasion (but we were on the road for 50+ days). Bottom line…we could have spent the last 5.5 years and next 2.5 years making sure you were in bed by 730, making sure we were in the right place for naps, shushing people for being too loud (and by people, I mean Dad ;)) but instead…you sleep even though there is  noise, and you behave (are tolerable) in restaurants in the evening (for the most part…love you!)). And you have turned into really great little people. We are so proud of you for that.

3. Life is short…find a way to make things happen in the moment. If you have the means to experience life…do it. And if you don’t…do what it takes to find the means. Life is short. Don’t wait. You never know what challenges you may face around the corner. And you will never regret happy life experiences. Be grateful for the life you have.  Treat people like you wish to be treated.  Be curious…explore, travel and experience all that is around you.

4. Always opt to turn around and ‘go back’.  This happens all the time on a road trip.  You drive by something going a little too fast…it looks cool…should we go back? YES! Sure…75% of the time it may not have been worth it. But that only cost you 5 minutes of your life. The other 25% of the time you made memories that will last forever. That is truly an amazing thing.

5. Take the road less travelled. You will find this out on your own time…but Dad is a HUGE fan of taking the ‘road less travelled’. Now, by that I don’t mean just not taking the most obvious road. Dad likes the dirt road in the middle of nowhere, where he isn’t sure where it ends. It can sometimes be scary or frustrating…but Dad is in his happy place during these moments. I indulge him…and assume you will also inherit either his genes or my patience 😉 $50 on which child has which ;)))) xo

Thanks for such amazing memories. We love you…as big as the sky and the sky is never-ending 😉