So Christopher will be graduating from Basic Training soon. We are proud of him and excited to go and support him. We miss him. I can't wait to lay my eyes on him and get my arms around him. His siblings miss him too, believe it or not, they actually do.That's the good news.
The bad news is, we have a meager income right now. And we don't know for how long we will. A trip to South Carolina seems like an extravagance given our circumstances. Even with the plans I've made to drive and camp the WHOLE trip.(This post will have me being rather honest, so reserve judgement, I'm not seeking pity, just feedback.) I have written out a menu and I am very good at stretching a dollar. I have looked into free or nearly free camping options, coupons, hot deals, etc.
It breaks my heart to not go! I have to be there for my baby! His dad needs to be there too. That I think we can all agree on.
The cost to fly for the 2 of us, or drive with everyone is fairly comparable. I so want to take a family vacation. We haven't had one, just us, for 5 years. We went to Yellowstone for 4 days. It was fabulous and I did the whole trip on under $250.00, that's for 7 of us. Like I said it just seems like any extra expense is extravagant right now.
Here's the other thing, I've never really been glad about the times I look back and didn't go for it, in a situation like this. We've had financial highs and lows. I think we may for quite some time ahead as well. Do I always plan to "do stuff" later, when we can afford it?
Or do I take advantage of the time I still have with my youngins?
Do I knuckle down and demonstrate my Faith in the Lord or simply in the correct principles of provident living, hoping for some sense of satisfaction to compensate for the loss, or perhaps this is being "asked of us" as a demonstration of Faith, before a said blessing can take place?
Honest rambling, I'm sorry, but it is my blog, right?
How do you sort out when you are sacrificing FOR something or when you are simply doing without? I don't have a problem with sacrifice, if it's for a reason!
Useless sacrifice DRIVES ME NUTS!
Will I regret not taking everyone on this excursion in later years?
Will I regret taking everyone by summer when we are out of money?
Will Hubs get a job next week? Next month? Next Year?
What factors would you consider in making this decision? Am I putting too much thought into this?
Be kind, be honest, and be annonymous if necessary:)
7 comments:
Thank HEAVEN we don't have to make a decision like that on our own! Personally, I think you'd be glad in the end if you all go. The "almost" memories tend to hurt a lot, most especially the "should'ves". So back to that question - "Should you?" How can we help? (BUT - we WON'T take Deiter, no matter how much you beg, ha ha!)
I think you should pray about it and do whatever feels right. I don't know whether the whole family should go or just you as the couple but for SURE at *least* you two need to go! No money is tough, especially in situations like this. We're actually wondering what to do if there is a family event like a wedding, death, or what have you. Do we go, do we save that money for next month's mortgage? I don't know! We'll just play it by ear and do whatever feels right at the time I suppose.
But seriously, yellowstone for $250? If you can do *THAT* you can do anything!!Can you please give me some vacation advice?
I'll post on my private blog some questions regarding things like that-come soon!
Hi - you probably have no idea who I am but I am Becky's sister Louise (and Chris' cousin.) I enjoy reading your blog. I just don't feel too computer literate so I usually don't respond to anything. But, I had to this time. If you do make it to South Carolina feel free to swing by and see us in southern Virginia. Honestly, we'll take care of you for a few days or repack your cooler of food for you. It takes us 2 hours to get to South Carolina so depending on where in South Carolina you are going it might just work out! I don't travel like Becky and her family and being in Virginia for the past 22 years I don't know the west coast side of the family much -- but we would love to get to know you better. Good luck with your decision! Louise Hiatt
I think you should go! Not only will he be happy to see you there, you'll be glad you went!
oh my girl... i want to tell you to come on down, especially since i would get to see you!!
i am the type to just go for it and figure things out later. it usually works out... somehow!
thinking about you, sweet lady!
I think you should plan on going and move forward with planning the details (with or without the kids, I'm not sure), and then pray that you will have a terrible feeling if you shouldn't. That's how I go about these things sometimes.
Congratulations in advance to Christopher on his achievements!
My husband and I have this debate all the time-spend the money on memories with the family, or save for a rainy day. What's the better option? I don't know for sure. But if you can do a cheap vacation, I say DO IT!! Your kids will treasure the memories of traveling. Good luck!!
Post a Comment