Road Trip

I find myself saying often, I can’t believe I get to live this life. As I reflect on spring break and our recent road trip to Florida, I know how much the time with our girls and my parents was a gift. One I will cherish always.

Planning for spring break started late. At one point three out of four kids were heading in different directions with our youngest staying home. I started brainstorming ideas for us to get away when the chance to go to Florida came our way. My parents had rented a place and were gracious to extend an invite. All that was left was logistics. Do we fly or do we drive? Then plans for our oldest started to shift and soon two became three and we hit the road heading to Florida.

It was an epic road trip with so much windshield time with the girls. So many songs, states, and stories. 19 hours later (with a stop overnight south of Atlanta) we found ourselves seaside. The smell of saltwater and the warmth of the Florida sunshine was worth the wait.

We hit the beach, explored tide pools, kayaked, visited a local flea market, took a sunset boat tour, and ate ice cream almost everyday. Sunburns, a ton of seashells, and time with grandparents were also highlights from our week. But what I will truly cherish are the quiet moments that exist when you are fully present with your kids and making the most of each day.

Our girls are 16 and 12. They have bonded in a way I can’t always explain to others and I admire their ability to love each other in this beautiful chaos. They are strong and confident – so much more than I was at their age. They have opinions, they can carry on a conversation with adults, and each is on their own faith journey. They still hold my hand in quiet moments, they challenge me to relax and not take myself too seriously, and they insist on adventure.

I met some personal fears head on this trip. For years I’ve told myself I can’t drive long distance, and I’m terrified of driving in big cities. I also like to have a fully baked plan – as our oldest pointed out on this trip – I have control issues. She was referring to my refusal to use cruise control (love her). This trip forced me to drive through Nashville and Atlanta. Funny how our kids hold a mirror up in front of us. I can see the good and the parts that still need work. They inspire me to be a better mom, to let go of fear so I don’t miss out, and to trust God more.

I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. Psalm 139:13-14