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safe, and make memories. If one idea fails to work out, try another. Be open to new activities.

I did this on an early vacation my mother and I took. Without planning to do so, I decided to watch the dancing at the pavilion one night. While I sat on the side, my mind took in the sight of the other guests. No one dressed fancy or looked like a dance expert.

Still, laughter engulfed the whole space and people actually talked, even if they were strangers! A young lady from the area asked me to join her in the line dancing. I hesitated; however, she grabbed my hand and pulled me in the formation. Before I could blink twice, the swell of the music erased my fear of looking silly, and I danced. It was my first time, and the memory remains secure, even after more than a decade passed.

I have many other memories too, and I want my kids to make their own. The only way for them to do this is for me to not over plan our getaways. Instead of worrying about the perfect room, find a house to rent or stay with someone you know who owns a house in the area where you will vacation. At Rough River, in Kentucky, many of the residents invite each other to have fun at a bonfire or through other events.

These are generally open to residents and their guests. Families can save money by staying with family or friends, who own property in the area, and still participate in activities at a nearby park or lodge. Swimming is the only activity reserved for guests.

Again, the main question to answer is: What do I need to do to meet the needs of the people traveling on this vacation? Safety, food, shelter, medical care (if the need arises), and reasonable comfort should come first. Then, within your budget, what activities can you expect to have available?

From this point, decide when to arrive and depart, how you will travel, and the length of stay. Take a deep breath, plan to not plan and relax. No matter what happens, everything will work out; although, events may not be in the order you wish or the way you wanted. Be open to the words new and flexible. Do not expect to have a perfect vacation; perfect does not exist even if the magazines make it look possible.

Learn more about this author, Patti Mcquillen.
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