Luke 12:33
"Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags
that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where
no thief approaches and no moth destroys."
This weekend I was fortunate to receive a FREE stay at a local area hotel on the beach that overlooks the ocean. What a blissful sensation it is to awaken to the sound of rolling waves deferring that tension I felt all week. Even more fortunate to see the children are still sleeping and require no demands. I slipped out on the balcony to bask in the warmth of the morning light and be serenaded by local seabirds. What a peaceful feeling to admire God's creation in perfect peace.
We spent the day unencumbered with financial regret as we soaked in the beach, hot tub, and pool free for the taking. Hours were spent reading, reminiscing, and slouching ensuring prompt renewal of the spirit. What a delightful, restful experience vacations, even if short, are! You go back to your duties or work feeling a great center of peace and thankfulness for all God's recent blessings.
I was so inspired and rested this morning that I wondered if there was such a Bible verse that condones the great blessings of a vacation. Sure enough, I came upon, "Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the
heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys." I knew that God was speaking directly to my heart. I've often been noted quoting, "If the time arises, and blessings are at hand, take that vacation and build some memories. You can't take that money when you're gone. Furthermore, all those needy household demands such as that remodeling will still need to be remodeled again in 10 - 15 years, and no one is going to say one day, 'Hey, Mom, that remodeling project you did 10 years ago was awesome. I really love it!' But, they will remember special trips and occasions you planned out for them many years well into the future."
Vacations don't have to be expensive. I should know, I am the queen of planning reduced cost get-a-aways. More importantly, it was never the memory or the amount of money that is remembered, but the time shared, and the unique experiences encountered. For those that would love to plan more family trips, yet, have financial issues, I've offered sites to help you plan. Don't waste one more moment as summer is fast approaching to plan your family memory.
Daily Guidance
1. One of my favorite trip planning sites is KOA. I have been known to go away for weeks jumping from one KOA to the next. The staff is friendly and supportive if a need arises.
2. Don't dust aside state parks. Florida state parks offer beautiful campsites to accommodate any type of stay. Check out your local state park for more information. Sometimes a trip can be less than an hour away!
3. I have started a website titled Ms. Camper. Here, I will begin to list all camping vacations we've taken in the last 15 years around the whole Southeastern United States. Yes, we are avid campers!
4. Of course, there are days we need a hotel room. Choice Hotel Rewards is fantastic. It is free to sign up, and it delivers many specials. We often receive free rooms after completing a designated stay.
5. Check out your local attractions. Disney offers local discounts to Florida residents here when the tourist peak is down. You can grab a room close by or stay on the facility. Every state has wonderful places that need exploring!
6. Whatever it is wherever, just plan it. You can't bring those moneybags to heaven. But all that love you experience on these getaways will be a comfort later in life.