We’ve all heard that expression, but it doesn’t always work that way. Yesterday we enjoyed a day where time seemed to slow to a crawl. (Why can’t more days be like that? They are wonderful!) We crammed a lot of fun into our day, but without the “time flying” phenomenon.
Only on vacation can you fit this much fun into one day…
- lots of vegging (ie. reading, playing games, watching TV),
- sculpting (birds, dogs, and dolphins),
- a winter hike, complete with lots of animal tracks to identify,
- an afternoon nap with warm cookies and cold milk to wake up to,
- a campfire with hot chocolate and a game of broom hockey,
- and a Wildlife Encounters show (where we got to meet a porcupine, an American alligator, a cockatoo with a larger than life personality, a cute little hedgehog, a giant poisonous toad, and an adorable wallaby). C-Bear even got to hold an albino Burmese Python.
What is it anyway that makes a day move slower than normal? And how can I bottle that magic for use in the hectic fray of the everyday?! I know convenience foods and time away from those pressing to-do lists makes a huge difference. We are eating all sorts of quick and easy things this week that would never find their way into our refrigerator at home, and the only thing on our to-do list for the week is to spend quality time together. But, seriously, I have a vague notion that there is something about the vacation mode mentality that I can take home with me. I need to give it some more thought to put my finger on exactly what it is, but I think it has something to do with a mindset that engages more fully in the moment, that chooses to simplify the calendar and life in general, that chooses to say “no” in order to say “yes” to what really matters.
Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you. (Psalm 116:7)
Linking up with…
My Peace in the Puzzle 
WOW! I can’t believe you saw all those live animals! Fun! 🙂 Hedgehogs are SO CUTE. And a wallaby!? *swoon*
What you said about being more intentional about being in the moment reminds me of a book I’m currently reading – Essentialism. Have you read it? I’m hoping it helps me to do just that–pick the things that are REALLY important and put my energy into those instead of doing a whole lot of things sorta well.
I’m interested to hear what you come up with! 🙂
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That sounds like a great read! I’ll have to check it out. Thanks, Catie!
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Sounds like a fun time. My kids usually go nuts over anything where they can meet, touch and learn about animals up close. Aren’t vacations just the best?! If only I never had to make beds and clean house; I could certainly relax and enjoy the everyday moments more.
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Good point…letting the housecleaning go definitely contributes to the relaxation of a good vacation! Sadly, we are just packing up this evening to head home. One of our middle girls is almost in tears. Back to a normal routine next week!
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