We try to lead by example but there are some things worth being explicit about: It’s good to travel.
As second generation immigrants, both your mama and I grew up with an inherent sense that there were other places that mattered, places that were not where we happened to be. That there were people and experiences that were different and separate from the ones that we lived day to day.
Even after my dad came to this country he lived his passion for travel and included his family. We drove everywhere, including driving trips through the northeast and Canada (including, believe it or not, camping.) My parents spent their hard-earned money and took us on what trips around the country and the world he could, exposing us to new cultures and new places. He demonstrated to us the worth and beauty of travel and it’s a value that we’ve taken on and made into our own.
All three of you already are frequent flyers at such an early age. (I think the oldest one of you have been on maybe 30 flights already?) Part of that is due to the fact that your grandparents and uncles live in various parts of the country. But as the three of you get to an age where we can travel more easily, we are salivating to see more of the world together. To show you where your mama and I have already been and to experience new places together.
I’m writing this as your mama and I are getting ready to leave on our own overseas trip, to experience a new country and culture. Your mama and I travel together so well (which is not always a given when it comes to any two people, even if they love each other. Found that one out the hard way!) We both bring a complementary mix of active travel and relaxed, planned and spontaneous, foodie and road side. It’s a joy to travel with her.
But this is actually the the first time we’ve done a trip like this since our honeymoon, and hence the first time we’ve left you all to do a solo trip. I’m excited for the time away, honestly. It’s a rare enough opportunity that doesn’t take anything away from the joy we have together as a family. In fact, by doing these sorts of things means we can bring that energy back to the family. One of the many things that travel does. (I still say “No worries” 13 years after visiting Australia.)
But I’ve always said that part of the allure of travel for me was appreciating what I had at home all the more. To look out the view from my front window with fresh eyes, to see the colors in the trees and sky that I’ve forgotten to look at. Coming home from this trip will be especially memorable, for coming home from the airport will be the three of you waiting for us.
It might be odd enough to say before even leaving for a trip, and I can say it without taking anything away from the excitement of going – but I can’t wait to come home.