Shortly after the Rogers' Family Christmas Cabin 2011 came to an end, my siblings and I started plotting a surprise trip to Tahoe for our parents' 40th anniversary. I remember having several conversations over our shared Christmas vacation about the best kinds of gifts, and the recurring theme from my parents was that time shared with people they love is always more valuable than tangible gifts. And so it began...
Last Friday, all my siblings (except Sam, who was spending time with his kids out of state) and a few spouses met up for the surprise - without our children. Our plan of attack changed about 8 times in the final 30 minutes before the reveal, and in the end, we just sat on the couch in the family room and waited for them to come home. When they entered, unexpecting, there was shock, and then marvel.
We spent less than 48 hours together, but I have to admit that the time we worried would pass by too quickly was savored and milked for every moment. We ate marvelously and walked a lot. Then we ate some more and went on a hike. We stayed up late playing games to stay awake, being rowdy and acting like our own children.
It wasn't until Sunday afternoon, after I had returned home and hugged my boys, that I realized why the weekend was so magical. There was no whining. Not ever. We basked in and savored each other's company. We celebrated my parents. It was one of the best weekends ever.
Mission: Accomplished.
2 comments:
What a great surprise. I bet your parents were thrilled! People are so much better than presents.
I love that you managed to keep it a surprise. That's a lot of people trying to keep the secret and showing up. And I agree with AngryBaker, time with those you love is the best.
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