We did it! Staycation was a huge success! My goal for our week together in our home was to put relationship roots down deeper, have fun, and make lifetime memories. We all agree that we did so!

The food, decorations, and activities were only to provide fertile ground for the above.

We listened to each other share future plans and favorite movies. We learned new games and skills. We cheered each other on and celebrated birthdays and successes. The Grand had more playmates and attention than he knew what to do with at times.

Yesterday when each couple left, I cried a little. Our time together made me think how much our family needs each other to fully be the person God created them to be. We can make each other laugh like no one else can. We can also push each other’s buttons like no one else can. We share our deepest thoughts and we understand each other because we have a shared history.

This morning as I looked out into the backyard, even though Gene had put away all the toys, fishing poles, kayaks, and paddles, I still saw six adult kids and one tiny Grand running around and laughing and having a wonderful staycation.

I truly do not know when we will all be together again—maybe not till next year. But during Staycation we sank our relationship roots deeper and they will hold as we Skype, text, and call to keep in touch till we gather again.

Was Staycation worth the work and worry? Absolutely!

Brenda Garrison is an author and speaker who empowers women with the confidence to live their calling. Brenda is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Degree in Ministry Leadership with a Concentration in Women’s Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. She and her husband, Gene, are the parents of three young adult daughters and live near Metamora, IL.