Jeff’s Journal
By Jeff Whitaker
As you look to the year ahead, have you taken the time to plan “a get away”? My family and I recently returned from a huge “get away”. My wife and I celebrated our 25th wedding anniversary by taking the whole family to Hawaii. It was quite a trip in many ways.
Among the highlights, we renewed our vows on the beach in Maui. It was amazing and really a once in a lifetime experience. From the breathtaking views of palm trees and mountain peaks to the warm, sunny beaches, the winding roads with surprises of waterfalls and tropical flowers around each bend, to island food and the laidback, relaxing way of life; the trip was amazing. But the best part was the time spent with our family. To experience everything together was the icing on the cake.
You might be thinking that a trip to Hawaii (while nice) just isn’t in the picture for you right now. I get it and to be honest, this wasn’t a spur of the moment decision for us and taking the entire family was a once in a lifetime event. We told our family that this trip was big and it meant that Santa may take it a bit easier this year. We even half heartedly joked that the next birthday may require a reminder of our excursion across the globe as well.
But my point is that the time spent superseded every other aspect of the trip. Earlier in the fall, my wife and I took the time for a one night “get away” to Cape May. The thirty minute ride from our home might as well have been three or four hours away.
The point is, we changed the scenery and “got away” if only overnight. The older I get the more value my family and I see in shared experiences over material gifts. We find ourselves agreeing that ten years from now the experiences we share will be remembered much more than the sweater or scarf under the tree. And here is the kicker, your “get away” doesn’t have to be a ten hour airplane flight away.
During the holidays especially, we often use Shore Local and other resources to see what’s going on in our area; parades, special holiday events, etc. And as you look to 2023, sit down with your significant other and be intentional about planning a couple of “get aways” during the year. I think you’ll find fun in the planning and anticipation, a recharging of your relationships and a refreshment in the change of scenery. Let’s make 2023 a memorable year.
