Homeschoolers Trip to Darien Lake
Darien Lake Day is fast approaching us, as it is something we have done as a family (grandparents, parents, cousins, aunts, uncles). Sadly though, I think this is the last year we will be going altogether. One of my sisters and her family will be leaving in 2 months for Colorado. We have been doing this for over the last 25 years faithfully as part of a state wide get together for homeschooling families. It started out as 1 day in June, spanned to 2 days (your choice on one) and now is open for you to choose which day in June works best for you.
My children, just like me when I was their age, are counting down the days till we leave that exciting morning. I am writing down all of the things needed for that day and stores to visit for the supplies. I usually bring snacks for the little ones to eat while we go from ride to ride and of course, lunch at the vehicle. Little ways to save money and still enjoy the few snacks we get there! I am thoroughly exhausted after that day but the smiles on my children’s faces gives me the strength to power through. But then how could we break up a family tradition? Especially when it will all change next year?! Bittersweet! I am not even sure that my children know what lies ahead. I know that they have been told about the move but I am not sure if they fully understand what this changes. You see, we live next door to my sister and her family and 2 doors down from my parents. They have been accustomed to being able to walk through the fields (as we live on a combination of 70 acres or so) and visit their homes for so long. We have lived here for most of their lives and this is where I grew up for over half of my life. There will be a hole once they leave. My sister has 2 children that are the same age as mine, not including the older ones that have babysat and my littler ones have grown attached to. They play soccer on the same team together every summer and have been homeschooled together all their life. I am not sure how I am going to hold it together when they leave, especially for my children.
For my husband and I, my sister and brother in law have been a constant help in how we look at marriage and family rearing. I can’t think of a family memory that does not include them. Pictures are filled with them and Holy Days/holidays have been essential with them. I just keep reminding myself that it will be ok and that it will work out, YHWH is in control!!
For now, I will take every moment given to me and look forward to “our” day at Darien Lake. I won’t waste time that I can’t get back and pray for our family daily. I encourage anyone reading this post to take the time to appreciate your family…..regardless of petty differences and division. Life is short and bitterness is not worth holding onto. Take every moment to spend time with your family and laugh out loud!!!
Shaloam!!