Take heart: The impossible family vacation is possible

By Lisa Janusa
NOLA Catholic Parenting

Have you ever experienced a family vacation that includes several generations? If you have, you know it takes a lot of advanced planning.

In a world with families who have children involved in multiple summer sports, chess clubs, summer camps and even summer part-time jobs, it can be an almost impossible task to pick a time and place that a majority can commit to.

My husband and I just returned home from one such occasion. I must admit that I had my doubts about whether or not this would ever happen, but I’m here to encourage you to put forth the effort since it could provide many valuable benefits. “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1).

First, as parents, you are showing your children that they are people with whom you would choose to spend time. Children are always looking for your attention and affection. Parents will be pleasantly surprised to see their children’s responses, and, as a bonus, you will create memories that will last a lifetime.

“May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had.” (Romans 15:5). Think about that. Don’t you smile when you remember your childhood family trips?  

Living under the same roof and learning about how to cooperate and share tasks teaches them that many hands make light work. “Train up a child in the way he should go, even when he is old, he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6). These acts of charity will gain them more time for fun and shared experiences.

Young and old family members together can exchange stories and give practical instruction on how, for example, to bait and catch a fish. Our granddaughters loved combing the beach for seashells and considering how they could get creative and make their own special decorations.     
One of our grandsons, the youngest, discovered that he was pretty good at scooping up jellyfish in a net so that he could protect others from getting stung.

My husband, the grandfather, suggested that the family visit a nearby historic fort and learn about battles fought years ago that shaped our country.

We saw other families along the way who were enjoying their time together too. This made me very happy to see that this social experiment was a success and something we may want to repeat again and again. God will guide you and may even surprise you with the ways you will sense his presence amid your family vacation. “When two or three are gathered in My name, I am there in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).

Lisa Janusa is a mother and grandmother in New Orleans and has been a St. Dominic Catholic Church parishioner with her husband for 50 years. A big part of her life has been spent serving God through various music ministries in St. Dominic Church and School. She is proud of her Catholic faith and is happy to share her knowledge and experiences in her life with the readers. [email protected].