Making Memories With Our Kids

Okay, I’m a proud dad.  I realize that I already posted this picture to facebook a week or two ago, but I just couldn’t resist the opportunity to brag again about my kiddos.  I took this picture while on the ferry between Ellis Island and The Statue of Liberty on President’s Day.  We really had a great time together as we journeyed up to North Jersey.  The trip was timed perfectly for what Hannah was learning in school.

I had never been to Ellis Island, so it was new territory for me.  You could easily spend a couple of days there.  We spent four hours or so.  There is so much to learn and see.  It was amazing to imagine being one of the twelve million immigrants who came through Ellis Island in the pursuit of making America their new home.  Getting off a boat after several weeks and stepping in line to wait my turn to find out if I would be accepted or rejected.

I’ve been to the Statue of Liberty before, but it was really cool to show it off to our kids.  Things have changed a bit since I was there pre-September 11th.  We had to go through a couple of security checks just to enter the pedestal.  We only made it up to the top of the pedestal as the stairwell to the crown was limited to a few select ticket holders.  It was still worth it though.  We had an opportunity to look back on Ellis Island and then to look across the harbor to the New York City skyline – forever changed by the events of 9/11.

Our kids really seemed to appreciate this adventure and the lessons from history.  We enjoyed making memories for our family that will last a lifetime.  Maybe next time, we’ll venture into the city to catch a show on Broadway, to visit Ground Zero, and to walk through Central Park, but for now I’m thankful for the time with my family.  Our kids are growing so quickly, and our opportunity to influence and to make a lasting positive impact on them as they are under our care will pass like a blink of the eye.  We want to make a difference in our parenting.  We want to pass along a legacy that they can carry to their kids (just like our parents have done for us).

What are you doing to create memories with your kids?  How will they remember the time they spent with their family?

I can’t wait for our next family adventure!