Father’s Day Update

As I mentioned in my last post, we decided to put a new spin on the usual Father’s Day traditions and launch efforts to intentionally write our family story by creating memories. So I explored these questions:

What about being a dad to my kids do I want to celebrate? What do I enjoy about those relationships?

What about being my kids’ dad might they want to celebrate? (they’ll probably not be able to answer the question but you’ll get a good picture by listening to the stories they tell about you).

How can we do that?

http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1556

I decided I wanted to celebrate the fact that I like to be with them and I wanted them to know it. Each of them has a different sense of humor that when their stress level is low, is free to come out. And they crack us up. They also like having fun with me when I’m not taking myself (or anything) too seriously. The key was to get away for the day. On a tight budget, that’s not easy but we found a way.

After worship, we had lunch at home with our youngest two, loaded the car with snacks and drove 20 min to Arrington Vineyards. Founded by Kix Brooks of the country group Brooks and Dunn, AV offers a free venue for families to enjoy live music and each other. With the help of Phase 10 and rummy, we did just that with our two high schoolers. Unfortunately, our oldest two couldn’t join us. Next time.

Despite the flies, it was a great day. There was no rush to be somewhere or need to get something accomplished. On the way home we decided we want many more days like this.

They don’t just happen. We have to be intentional. Here are some questions we’re going to use to help:

How often do we want to have family getaway days?

Given our schedules, when are the best days and times?

What are the options available given our budget?

Who will be responsible for planning them? With some direction, kids can take responsibility for helping plan family outings too! It’s a great way for them to use their skills and abilities, to learn, and have a voice in family decision making.

I would love to hear what you are doing to write your family stories. Leave a comment letting me know.