When my oldest daughter was just 3 years old, I couldn’t wait to introduce her to The Lion King at Playhouse Square. Looking back, she was probably a little too young to sit through a Broadway musical, but I was so excited to share it with her that I took her anyway.
She sat on one of those little booster seats they offer at the theater, making her just tall enough to peek over the seat in front of us. I don’t remember how much of the story she followed, but I’ll never forget her face when the animals came down the aisles. She was so excited.
This summer, more than 20 years later, we found ourselves back in those same seats.
Only this time, everything was different.
She’s married now. There was no booster seat. Before the show, we chatted over dinner. On the drive home, we found ourselves reminiscing about the music, the incredible costumes, and just how amazing the show was.
The production was just as breathtaking as I remembered — actually, probably even better. But the experience was completely new.
It made me realize that some of the best summer traditions aren’t about finding something new. They’re about rediscovering something old.
As parents, we’re always looking for the next adventure right? The newest attraction. The latest vacation spot. But sometimes the greatest gift is revisiting the places that helped shape your family. We love returning to some of our favorite vacation spots year after year.
Go back to the zoo you used to visit every summer. Ride the same carousel. Watch the fireworks from your family’s favorite spot. See that Broadway show again. Walk the
same hiking trail. Order ice cream from the stand you’ve been visiting for years.
You’ll quickly discover that while the place hasn’t changed much, the conversations will change.
When our children are little, experiences are often about wonder. They ask endless questions. They point out every tiny detail. As they grow older, those same experiences become opportunities for deeper conversations, shared laughter, and hearing perspectives you never knew they had.
So before summer slips away, consider planning a “redo.” Think back to something your family loved years ago and experience it again through the eyes of who your child is today.
You may discover that while the first time was unforgettable, the second time is meaningful in an entirely different way.
Sometimes the best new memories begin with an old tradition.
Sara Carnes is the “Co-Host of the “Start Your Day Positive ” daily podcast, where they discuss news, trending topics, and uplifting conversations to start your day. startyourdaypositive.com
