We'll soon be leaving for our annual family vacation.
Sometimes, it's just the six of us.
Other times, Ed's aunts and uncles also go, with their families, and we have a family reunion, of sorts, on Okaloosa Island. One of Ed's aunts actually found the condo complex where we stay and we haven't missed a year.
It's our most cherished time of the year.
We pack up our well-worn suburban, affectionally named the 'Fun Bus,' and there's not an inch of space to spare. But it wouldn't be a trip without the discomfort of being in such close proximity for 14 hours.
The hours allow for us to reconnect.
Sometimes we talk, sometimes we listen to music; other times the kids all have their headphones in. Lots of reading goes on. And, of course, the attempts to sleep as you sit upright in a seat which are mostly unsuccessful.
It's our most cherished time of the year.
By the time we reach Florida, we're all more than ready to be there and out of the suburban.
We've gone so many years that we have the routine down pat.
Once inside the condo, we all breathe a sigh of relief to have arrived and, even though we've seen the sight so many times before, we continue to be surprised and amazed at the beauty of the ocean outside our balcony sliding doors.
Our days are filled with sunshine and sunscreen. Also, a variety of beach appropriate drinks. It's a time for experimenting and finding a new combination to add to our usual list.
Our nights are filled with fabulous food at our favorite restaurants. Some well-known and some out-of-the-way lucky accidents. Whatever the case, we are extremely full and satisfied after each trip.
Nothing earth shaking happens over this week.
Nothing besides what we know and love.
It's our most cherished time of the year.
However, this will be the last year our six will be going together. At least for a while.
We know this for certain.
Braxton will leave for Macedonia in September. His Peace Corps commitment will keep him overseas for 27 months.
I realize how blessed we are to have the years we've had together. Vacations are a luxury and we know it. The time spent with one another is priceless.
So, this year will be earth shaking because we'll all know how special these days are because they are numbered.
Ed and I have always hoped our summer vacations will continue to include our four kids and, when and if the time is right, their future families. Long after we're gone, we pray the kids will continue this tradition of spending an entire week, uninterrupted, with those they love most in this world.
So, the battered suburban will head out soon. As loaded down and as crowded as usual.
I know, that as I look around from the front seat beside Ed, I'll see the five people who are my everything.
Traditions continue.
Bonds tighten.
Love grows.
It's our most cherished time of the year.
It is what it is.
p
