Travel

 WRITING PROMPT: Travel 

 Growing up, I thought our vacations were lame. We didn't get to go to Disneyland like everyone else. Instead, we went to Mount Rushmore, ancient pueblos, and visited grave sites and homesteads of wild west outlaws and "famous" historical figures that only people like my Dad would be excited about. Every trip was dripping in history, and on our way to the historical sites, the car stopped at every historical marker happened upon on the side of the road. 

I used to think it was obnoxious. But now I treasure those trips and the diverse things I experienced. I now appreciate my Dad's ridiculously vast historical knowledge and am so grateful he shared his passion with me. 

Just today, my parents left on a two week history tour of the east coast. I adore this about them. In our own family, vacations look a little different. Gratefully, Barry and I see pretty eye to eye on the what/where/how of a trip. 

We love nature. We love zoos, aquariums, and art. We love musicals and other live performances. We love architecture. But most importantly, we love the food. It's not a good trip if good food isn't involved. 

I always wished my parents would just take us to California like "normal" people, and now I find myself doing the same thing to my own kids. The likelihood of us going to a theme park is pretty darned slim. I'd rather spend my money elsewhere. Sorry, not sorry, kids. You can plan your own trips when you're out of the house. 

For now, they'll just have to groan and deal with it as their dad and I plan our adventures. And stop at at least a few historical markers on the way.