When we create memorable summer traditions family time is all the sweeter.  

“At the heart of every family tradition is a meaningful experience.” [i]

Have you given much thought to creating family traditions? Summer is the perfect season to turn those thoughts into purposeful actions. Every family has at least one common interest, if not several. For some this could mean backyard camping or visiting a nearby zoo. Others might be into a mountain getaway or a day at the county fair. Whatever it is, this is the start of a family tradition that can carry on year-after-year.

My Childhood Traditions

My family of origin had a few traditions. I think back to growing up in southern Oregon’s scenic Rogue valley. My dad worked all week and cared for our farm, too. But Sunday afternoons work was put aside, and the hours were all about family. This meant a picnic was packed and all of us would get in the car and head to the river or a nearby lake. All these years later, I still remember how excited us four kids would get. Casey Park was one of our favorite spots along the banks of the upper Rogue River, and just 30 minutes from home. Willow Lake was a little further away, and high in the mountains. But we loved it here because we could swim and float in calm waters. On the ride home Dad would stop at a little country store and buy each of us a soda pop. He always let us choose either orange or grape flavor. That seemed the best treat on a hot summer day.

Traditions Bond

Traditions are a lot like glue. They tie generations together. Michael Strahan once said, “I have the best memories as a kid eating ice cream. It was a family tradition that I had with my father. It was nice.”

If your childhood family didn’t have this kind of blessing, don’t be discouraged. It’s possible to create them now in your adult life. Think ahead. What kind of memories do we want our children and grandchildren to experience. What is done now can rewrite the family story and bless future generations.

Start small. Simple is sometimes best. If your family likes rock hunting, take a hike. Or visit a rock quarry. This can easily become a repetitive outing. Rocks are just about everywhere. Find a place to display the booty after returning home. When there’s something to look forward to excitement begins to build. Put the date on the calendar. Plan. Spending time together as a family is priceless.

Over 30 years ago our family began attending family camp at a Christian Conference center. It became a summer habit we still practice to this very day. No one wants to miss out on the fun of being together. One week out of the year our adult children plan their vacations for the same week. And we reap the benefits of enjoying them and our grandkids.

Invest in Family

Any effort made on behalf of the family, is an effort worth making. I’ve never met anyone lying on their death bed who regrets time invested in family.

Yes, our traditions might require money. It’s smart to think they will. This makes it all the more important to make this particular expense a part of the family’s yearly budget.

Create Scrapbook Memories

“The most treasured heirlooms are the sweet memories of our family that we pass down to our children.” [i]

Most of us carry a cell phone with a camera in our pocket. Let’s take advantage of preserving the memories as we make them. Traditions are meant to be talked about and enjoyed for generations to come. Picture albums or scrapbooks are one way we create lasting memories. Keepsakes.

Prayer

Lord, You are a God who loves traditions. And we are a people who love our families. Help us to build traditions that reflect our love for each other and honor our Christian faith. Inspire our minds with fresh ideas. Let us not grow weary of practicing the repetitive things that knit us closer together. Place within our hearts the desire to make our family’s legacy one that carries out wholesome, memorable traditions. Please keep us from fussing over the price of fun by helping us to budget our resources well. We praise You, Lord. Amen

Coaches Corner

Are traditions something that sounds uncomfortable or out of reach to you? Perhaps a coach could help. I’d be honored to come alongside you. The first 30 minute online session is always free. Contact me at https://www.rebuildingfamilies.net/life-coach/.

[i] https://quotesgram.com/family-tradition-quotes-and-sayings/

[i] https://quotesgram.com/family-tradition-quotes-and-sayings/