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Our Best Vacation Ever

Album: Gold Audio 05: Daring Deeds, Sinister Schemes

Episode: 79

Lesson/Theme: Family togetherness.

Bible Verse: Ephesians 6:1-4

Characters: Donna, George, Jimmy, Mary, Whit

Writer: Phil Lollar

Sound Designer: Dave Arnold

Original Air Date: July 22, 1989

Last Air Date: April 23, 2008

Description:
Summer is vacation time-for everyone except the Barclays. Mary has reviewed the family budget, and there isn't enough money to go anywhere. The family isn't too happy about the prospect of not having a vacation. The next day, George stops in at Whit's End. He relays the depressing news to Whit, who suggests that the Barclays don't have to go anywhere to have a good time. They can have fun right there in Odyssey. George likes the idea and rushes home to tell the family. At first, they aren't sure about Whit's suggestion, but then they decide that it's better than sitting around feeling sorry for themselves. They decide to look for opportunities to have fun. Those opportunities start the next morning when Jimmy accidentally squirts his dad with a sprinkler, which leads to a massive water fight. The rest of the week is spent in low-cost, but fun, activities. The Barclays visit the zoo, take a trip to Trickle Lake, go camping (in the Barclay living room, no less), and attend an old-fashioned barn raising at the Riley farm. The Barclays have a wonderful time. They learn that a little creativity-and a lot of family togetherness-has given them their best vacation ever!

Questions:
George said that what makes vacations fun is not what you do, but who you're with. Do you agree or disagree? Why? What are some of the most creative activities you've done, without having a lot of money? Have you had any memorable family vacations? Why were they memorable?