Unless you’re conveyed via some exotic animal or vehicle, there is little joy in the traveling part of travel. I could see some fun in riding elephants or taking an F-15 to grandma’s house but heading out with the old chevy just doesn’t do it for me.

Fortunatley, trips are more about the people than the journey. This week, it was a blessing to see the kids reconnect with some distant grandfolks and to spend time with family we too often don’t to see – reminding us of why we are thankful and why I like this holiday so much.

My 9th grade English teacher once remarked how vacations weren’t so much about “fun” but had a root meaning in change. I’ve always liked that notion and take it with me to this day. Vacations are a change from the norm and often we need it – not to waste the time away, but to reconnect with folk, with yourself, with God.

I also take her words and try to use vacations as a way to examine my own habits. When I’m on vacation I tend to do things I value more – I read, take in a garden, talk through the night with friends or family… When at home it seems as if I don’t value these as much – that somehow I only get to “spoil” myself with these when away. They do not take more time but somehow in the pace of work and life things I tend to value get shoved to the side – replaced with routines that tend toward quick satiation.

With this particular journey’s end I’d like to keep not only the memories of the trip but some reminders about what is I value as important.