David and I decided that a road trip to some national parks was in order for a great family vacation this summer. I am not sure when we became unpopular with our still-at-home offspring, but there was definite groaning and moaning about "having" to take another family trip. We were informed that it is so much more fun when ALL the kids are together (not just the 3 of them), and summer is so short that a week without friends would be torture, and on and on. Interesting that when my siblings reminisce we always refer to those family vacations where I am sure someone threw up in the car, and the air conditioner did not work, but great times were had. We decided to use the parent trump card and take them against their will.
We rented a pull along RV, loaded it up with food for the week, kidnapped the kids, and headed to the Tetons, Yellowstone, and Glacier National Park. We took along the bikes, hiking shoes, and camelbacks for tons of communing with nature. David gave his customary challenge: "Whoever sees the first elk (grizzly, mountain goat, etc.) gets $25!" I playfully slug him for being so foolish with his money. When I drive I keep my eyes on the road, but David keeps his eyes out for animals. I think only Luke saw something once before David. The bank account is still safe...
Today I mentioned that I had to "make" them go on the trip, and both boys gave me blank looks. "What are you talking about Mom? That was totally fun." I smiled, thinking that I was their favorite mom once again. Then each of them gave an excuse as to why running off with friends was more important than family dinner with dear old mom. I picked myself up from falling off the pedestal and informed them that dinner was at 6:30pm and we would definitely be eating as a family. They can thank me later.
Untitled from Traci Barnes on Vimeo.
