Recently I learned the power of how to induce personal growth with travel. This was realized when our family traveled to the beautiful province of Alberta to visit family.
They were gracious in sharing their time, house and daily experiences with us.
These experiences presented the opportunity to grow as a family and uncover important personal growth opportunities.
I have asked myself, “why can a simple family vacation reveal so many growth opportunities?”
Upon reflection (less than 1 month ago since the trip as I write) many moments account for the growth we experienced as a family and personally.
Family Memories
- One major tourist attraction that is always discussed when in Edmonton is the West Edmonton Mall. When we arrived and began walking through the mall we walked past a photo booth. The question then was formed, “why not take a picture in the photo booth?” So we did. Cramming the four of us into a 2 person photo booth was much more fun than simply walking in a store to look around.
While getting lost in the vast spaciousness in all directions we decided to have some fun in the water park. We then continued our adventure together as we chose to go zip-lining side by side over top of the water park. Looking back and forth at each other seemed to freeze a moment in time, instilling precious images in our minds that we will always think of when we reflect on our visit to the West Edmonton Mall.
- Many other memories were created during our hotel stays between adventures, games nights, ice cream stops, barbecues with family, park visits, Sherwood Park Canada Day celebration.
Family Adventures
We chose to visit two places with significant value from a historic viewpoint and natural beauty.
- When someone travels to western Canada there is always a curiosity to see the mountains. One of the recommended places to see was Jasper National Park.
We had pre-booked a hotel room before our arrival in order to completely enjoy a full day of exploring in Jasper. When we arrived we were immediately disappointed with the condition of our room. However, this did not deter us from enjoying our stay and the excitement that this adventure was about to welcome us with.
The next morning we departed early to go see the mountains. The drive into Jasper National Park was glorious with stretching mountain landscapes and a backdrop of bright blue sky mixed with pastel white clouds.
The trail system we chose said it was approximately 4km in length but learned it was much longer after completing it. However, we were fortunate to see some wildlife while hiking (deer and eagle) and captured many breathtaking nature photographs.
We even seized the opportunity to overcome the temperate fear of cold water. It only took ten minutes but once I submerged my body under the emerald green water, the refreshing moment took hold.
This experience was a renewal of the spirit just being so entrenched in nature and the beauty that surrounded it.
- I have learned that when we are presented with the opportunity to learn about things that we can see in person, it gives a much deeper connection to what it is that we are learning about.
Never seeing archaeological discoveries of dinosaurs seemed like the perfect choice to learn more about history and how the world evolved.
This brought our learning interest to Drumheller. We began this journey by looking over top of the landscape to see the change in formation over thousands of years. The Royal Tyrrell Museum was abundant with information and explanations of science behind the evolution of time millions of years ago.
The museum gave us a more accurate imagination of what the prehistoric creatures looked like, lived, survived and evolved millions of years ago.
Close to the museum was a unique landscape called the Hoodoo Trail. This presented many photo capturing moments due to the distinct rock formations.
Personal Growth
This trip presented many new and abandoned personal growth practices.
- Getting outside comfort zone to enjoy many new experiences
- Participating in new daily customs/activities
- Learning about the geography/history/demographics of each area visited
- Extending gratitude for the things we were able to see and experience
- Looking within myself to consistently add value to each experience
- Witness/acknowledge the magnificent qualities of my family
- Practice kindness daily
- Step outside of everyday life to have another perspective of how I am living each day (reflecting if it is how I want to add value to myself and others)
This trip helped us to give more clarity to what we are lacking in our lives (more nature connection). What we want more of in our life (more family connection). What it feels like to have these things in our life (happy and joyful).
The next step is to plan action to make it happen consistently.
It is hard to believe that a simple trip, 4 hours by plane, 3 provinces away, could have such a meaningful impact in our life.
Shared moments with others are memories cherished as time fades away” – Kristin Larsen