Vacation Time, Will You Take It?

Mary Jane and Kristen

When was the last time you took a vacation? Some of us are good about making time to relax and be refreshed. Others are not. We live in a stressful world that does not always value time way. Large portions of Americans do not take time off anymore. However, bringing a balance to the time we spend at work with our need for rest is critical to maintaining our overall health and productivity.

For the last week or so my daughter and I went vacationing. She had a week off from school and I needed a break. We decided the best way for us was to use the family plan.

Faye, Phil and Mary Jane

Phil

First, we went to my brother’s in South Carolina to stay for a few days. I enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and the craziness my brother and I still share together. We may be older and more mature but we still remain young at heart. And honestly…my brother’s cooking from the grill beats any local establishments. (You can pay me later Phil.)

 

Little River Canyon

Next, we turned southwest and headed towards Fort Payne, Alabama. We put this destination on the itinerary because it was in keeping with the family plan by being able to stay with my cousin, Steve. And...Kristen and I could do the hiking we wanted to do in the area’s state parks.

DeSoto State Park

I love being out in nature whether it is hiking or enjoying the view from a park bench. When I spend time pondering the beauty and uniqueness’ of God’s creation, it helps me to de-stress and calm my soul. Then, God can come with inspiration and revelation on things that I have been asking Him about lately.

No vacation would be complete without a little shopping. Most of the shops in downtown Fort Payne have been there for years. But that does not deter me one bit. I love thinking about the times gone by. And, with a little effort, the treasures you can discover in the forgotten corners can end up being priceless.

Steve

Vacations are valuable. They do not have to be long or expensive to be effective. The main goal is to get away from your daily routine and stressful responsibilities so that you can relax and refresh. Sometimes it will take some creativity to work out the details. But be assured, the benefits will be worth the effort to secure the time off.

If you are still wavering on taking time away? Remember...Jesus took time away and then suggested to his disciples they do the same.

Mark 6:31-32

31 Jesus said to them, `Come away with me. Let us go alone to a quiet place and rest for a while.' Many people were coming and going. They could not even eat.

32 So they went away in a boat to a lonely place by themselves.

Jesus' place away was not fancy. It was in a boat near by. And… they were not able to be gone long because the crowds found them soon after. Nevertheless, Jesus still thought taking a breather was necessary. And if it was necessary then, how much more essential is it to us now.

Are you thinking about where you could go yet? Start planning and then start looking forward to some needed time away.