Last weekend I took advantage of the free fishing lessons offered by the state.

There were at least 20 participants, quite a few family families of varies sizes in attendance. There was two husband and wife teams. There was a mother and her special needs son. The instructor, aides and his mother were very patient and encouraging as his struggled in the beginning to learn about casting and setting up his rod. It was all worth it seeing the glee on his face after he caught his first two fish. The whole group cheered him on.

While we are the lake practicing, I noticed another family unit consisting of a grandfather, father and son. They all were very congenial and polite. We talked about our collective fishing experience and reasons for taking the lesson. The dad and granddad joyfully shared photos from recent fishing trips showing the father with a small shark. I witnessed them standing at different edges of the lake, teasing and cheering each other on as the caught sunnies and blue gill. They took turns carrying the equipment and food cooler to and from the park, lake and car. Of course they took more photos for memories. The pride on the son’s face when his dad took a picture of his first catch was unforgettable. In between was a short break when they sat on a bench together eating a simple fare of sandwiches and cold bottles of water.

The lesson was free, food costed just few bucks, but the life experience was priceless. Being able to share in another person’s struggles and triumphs–“YOU CAN’T PUT A PRICE ON THOSE THINGS”. Especially when it comes to your own family.

There are many families going on long road trips, taking airplanes to exotic vacations and that is ok. However, every now and then it pays to keep it simple and pass on more priceless memories. As a family pick out some cookbooks and magazines at the local library or borrow a few from grandmom. Think about taking trip to your local orchard and picking fresh fruit in season. Strawberries, blueberries, peaches and plums are plentiful this time of year. Pack a lunch and shares stories if you did the same as a kid. Let the kids explore nature and enjoy the sunshine. When you get home, freeze, dehydrate and cook some treats the same day. Teach them to share by giving a baked treat to a sick relative or neighbor. Bake some muffins and quick bread to have when you have to rush out to work or school and don’t have time to cook.

These simple family activities have some many benefits that it’s unbelievable. Consider the aromas, feelings, and sounds of joy that you will create. The lasting effects on themselves and the world around them is phenomenal.

Now is the time. Tomorrow is not promised to you. Think of something easy and relaxing that you like to do. If it is something that you can share with someone else, do it. Do it with love. Do it often and remember to keep it simple and pass it on.

Until next time much love and respect.