“I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list.” — Susan Sontag
I have always loved to explore, travel and marvel at the wonders of the world. My list of places I would love to see is long, so when I saw the quote in the title above, I totally related to it.
When I taught U.S. History for many years, there were many places that were added to my list. The areas I taught about would pique my curiosity, and I wanted to go experience the place. While raising my children, every family vacation included some history along the way. Before our family trip, I would look up famous markers, museums, state parks and other famous places of that area. You can imagine that our itinerary got quite long. It was a running joke with my children, that if mom saw a sign that read “Historical Marker”, we would take the exit and to see what it was all about. I’ve always believed that studying history in person makes a lasting impression and is the best education. When I had students who were leaving on vacation during the school year, I did not make them do make-up work. They were excused, if they found something they learned, wherever they took their vacation. Even if they went to Disneyland, research the history behind it and write about it. There is history all around us. My students loved this assignment. What is interesting today, is that my children still talk about the vacations and the historical places we visited. Now, my heart is filled with joy when I see my children doing the same thing on their vacations, with their kids. I love that they’ve even invited “Grammie” along with them, on some of their journeys.
“Expand your learning on every vacation. Take time to learn the history wherever you choose to travel. Mingle with the people, experience the culture, and taste their food.” — Janene Burton