It has been a long time since my little family has packed up our suitcases, loaded into the car and headed out of town for a vacation.

Last week, we did just that.

Packed for four days, we left Albert Lea and headed west on Interstate 90. Let me just say I haven’t been used to driving in the car with two young children for more than two hours in a long time, so it wasn’t the best car ride.

When we arrived in Hot Springs, South Dakota, we were excited to get out of the car, get checked into our hotel and then head up the mountain to see some of our family from my husband’s side.

We had a mini-family reunion of sorts, and I met some relatives I had never known before.

Our son and daughter had a blast, playing with their cousins, and I felt at home right from the start.

We spent the evenings at my husband’s grandparents house and at an uncle’s house, visiting with each other and seated around a campfire roasting marshmallows and making s’mores.

During the days, we traveled to some of the sites in the area including a pool and waterpark called Evans Plunge in Hot Springs, the Reptile Gardens and of course Mt. Rushmore, which has been a goal for me to see for some time now. It was awe-inspiring to see that man-made creation, not to mention to witness the natural beauty of the mountains there — something we don’t get much exposure to here in the Midwest.

Mt. Rushmore was as impressive as I had hoped it would be.

Other than some car problems for my in-laws after we got to the parking garage there, there weren’t any other major problems on the trip.

We got to get away from the normal routine of life for a few days, see family and have some extra time together as an immediate family.

Being away for a few days made me grateful for what I have here. We may not have it all in little Albert Lea, but we have a lot. And for that I am proud to say that I live here.

Ironically, the day after we returned to Albert Lea was the second Wind Down Wednesday of the summer.

I was proud to attend that event and feel that sense of community there by seeing the hundreds of people who attended.

I like being able to get to anywhere in Albert Lea in basically under 10 minutes, and I like knowing my neighbors and seeing people I know while I am out grocery shopping or running errands. Yes, I agree that sometimes it might be nice to run out without being recognized sometimes, but nothing can replace that feeling of being part of a community.

If you’re not doing so already, make it a priority to put yourself out there. Take part in community events, and don’t be afraid to give back.

Albert Lea lost a great man Sunday in Claire Vermedahl. Vermedahl taught me and others in the community the value of giving back through his own example. Let us remember his example as we help our city move forward.

 

Sarah Stultz is the managing editor of the Tribune. She can be reached at sarah.stultz@albertleatribune.com or 379-3433.