Every year, my girls and I pack our bags and head to Block Island for a summer getaway. This year, it’s just a brief three-night escape because of some heavy-duty commitments, but I know we’ll have a blast anyway. (https://www.blockislandinfo.com/)
The girls love this tradition as much as I do, and while Block Island isn't an exotic location, it’s the routine and tradition that make it special. Building memories is something I hold very dear to my heart, and I want my girls to continue this tradition when they become moms, perhaps even bringing along the grandmom, too! (https://youtu.be/gRdfX7ut8gw?si=NjsDupxJzJ5YkRTw)
Traditions are the glue that holds our memories together.
Each summer, as we ferry across to Block Island, I see the excitement in my girls’ eyes, knowing they’ll experience their favorite activities again. Whether it’s riding bikes around the island, lounging on the beach, or indulging in ice cream from our favorite shop, these moments are etched in our minds. These are the stories we’ll reminisce about, laugh over, and hold dear as the years go by.
Building a Sense of Belonging
Traditions give us a sense of identity and belonging. Our annual trip to Block Island is something we all look forward to, a shared experience that strengthens our bond. It’s a special time when we set aside the hustle and bustle of daily life and focus on being together. In a world that’s constantly changing, having a constant tradition like this helps us feel grounded and connected.
Teaching Values and Lessons
Traditions are also a great way to pass down values and lessons to our children. Through our yearly trips, I hope to teach my girls the importance of family, the value of taking time to relax and enjoy life, and the joy of simple pleasures. These are lessons that aren’t always taught in school but are crucial for a balanced and fulfilling life. Plus, there's something incredibly valuable about showing them the importance of consistency and commitment to family time.
Providing Stability and Comfort
Our lives can be chaotic, and traditions provide a comforting stability. No matter what happens during the year, we know we’ll have our Block Island getaway to look forward to. This predictability is especially important for children, offering them a sense of security and continuity. It’s a reminder that no matter how much things change; some things will always remain the same.
Traditions like our Block Island getaway are more than just fun annual events. They are the threads that weave our family’s story, and that keeps us grounded. As we pack up for this year’s trip, I’m filled with gratitude for these moments and look forward to the many more we’ll create in the future.
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