A couple weeks back my family woke up and got ready for church. It was a typical morning with the usual banter over who would get the first shower, locating specific shoes, who was going to let the dog out…etc.

As it came time to hop in the car, we noticed our son was hesitating. He seemed…out of sorts. So we asked him what was wrong.  He turned to me and asked, “Mom, do we have to go to church today?”  I said no, and then quietly asked, “How come?”  He responded with, “I need a break.”  My heart sank.  I thought to myself, “Oh, my!  What in the world is going on?!!!!”  He explained and we decided a quick and easy family getaway was needed.  So we headed to Elephant Rock for the day.  You can read all about Elephant Rock from the link, but here are some pictures of our trip.

“E” taking off with his trusty staff.

Father and son.

Pretty Elephant Rock lichen.

These are the “I gave my mom a heart attack pictures and when I survived she made me do it again, so she could take some silly pictures!”

 We tamed the wild beast.

We had a great time, talking, hiking, eating junk food in the car and just relaxing. It was good to get away. At the end of day we had talked through what was bothering him and he felt much better.  What I learned that day- Even children need a break from helping out at church; an inexpensive getaway can soothe the soul and means the most to kids; and always carry a staff.  Why? A couple hours drive north can mean snow and ice on the trail.

Meg