Before my dad’s second visit to Germany, I asked him what he was interested in doing. He said he wanted to go back to all the same places I had taken him the year prior. “Why?” I asked. “There’s so many new places we can explore.” Then, he said something that I will never forget: “The first time you go somewhere, you’re just trying to figure it out. You don’t know yet if you like it. The second time you go somewhere, you already know you like it, so you can really enjoy it.” I think about that statement all the time.
So, on our last unscheduled day in England, I decided to take the kids back to somewhere we have already been. I knew we would enjoy it. I knew we would be (mostly) alone. I knew there’d be a shady tree with a great view for a picnic. When the kids asked where we were going, and I told them we were returning to Castle Rising Castle, it was amazing the things they remembered and we excited about!
This time, I really tried to just enjoy it all. They wanted to spend two hours playing Floor Is Lava on ancient ruins. Go ahead. They wanted to play Sly Fox in some ancient ruins. Go ahead, because your next home is certainly not going to look like this.
It’s been really interesting to reflect on where we’ve been, and how far we’ve come. We visited Castle Rising Castle almost exactly a year ago. And now we’re such different people! This guy had so many more questions. What kind of castle is this? What did they use this for? Why are there no more ceilings and floors?
My little showgirl certainly didn’t have this vibe a year ago. Where did this come from?! She certainly doesn’t get it from me!
And sweet little Fireball, who’s literally turned into just that. A running, jumping, exploring ball of boyish energy. I just feel lucky that we left without blood being spilled. Because you literally cannot take your hands or eyes off this child.
One thing that hasn’t changed though, is the sheer impossibility of getting a decent selfie!
So, with everyone red-faced and dripping sweat, we packed it up and headed toward home. I hope they enjoyed their day. I know my dad would have loved to sit under that tree and poke fun at me as I wrangled three crazies.
Thank you, England. We have thoroughly enjoyed this journey.
Use Your Accent 