My sisters and I grew up in a family with parents who frequently planned activities for their friends that were just about fun. They had a close community of family friends that lasts to this day so it’s only natural that we’ve adopted a similar lifestyle and love to host events where the purpose is just enjoyment. One of my parents' made up events was something they called a Road Rally. This weekend we, along with my sister’s family, hosted our own first annual Rakestraw/Jung Road Rally.
Similar to The Amazing Race, we created a course through Cincinnati that included 10 road blocks. Ten pages of rhyming clues led them through the race, finishing at a park shelter where we had a big family party. Cars were sent off 4 minutes apart from the starting line and scored according to time, mileage, and the completion of checkpoints. We wanted this to be a family event so clues included everything from 90’s movie references to Webkinz characters and sports and history trivia. Parents needed their kids and kids needed their parents...
Roadblocks included riding on the bike path, climbing inside a tree, performing a family “scene” with goofy hats (complete with a “director”, thanks Susan!), assembling a Lego car, and identifying states and capitals on a map. Families ranged from “in it to win it” to just out for a fun activity, but we think everyone had a good time. Only one team broke open the wax sealed envelope to reveal the finish line and only one team got completely lost and came hours later after driving 80 miles! They had a great attitude though and provided a spectacular example of losing graciously. There are many funny stories from the 50+ participants and we’re already talking about next year.
We’re still smiling two days later and the whole day just made us thankful for having such willing friends (who sign up for our crazy ideas!) and reminded me why God wants us to be part of a community of friends. They grow and challenge us, provide us with support and encouragement, and sometimes - they're just all about FUN!
Finally, I can’t end without naming the 2010 Road Rally winning team: Bill, Nicole, Zoe, Dan, Anita, and Talia. Congratulations!!! Thanks everyone – can’t wait for next year!
WHAT FUN!!! My parents used to do these with their friends, but including kids is just awesome! So much work - so cool that you put it together. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea! Maybe you can pass on some pointers and I could try to organize this for our neighborhood this fall. It would be a wonderful family activity for our "hood".
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