I think Lacey's got the same sinking feeling I do about getting this suitcase closed... Stress.
I have come to the conclusion that you cannot avoid stress when you are preparing for a family of five to get away for a month.
I have made my lists and checked them twice to no avail:
Bills paid? Check.
Car maintenance completed (including new tires and battery)? Check.
Various appointments scheduled and completed? Check.
Dog care arrangements made? Check.
4H meeting on April 1st that we are hosting with another family planned? Check.
Art classes completed ahead of time? Check.
School books and supplies packed? Check.
Clothing and personal items packed? Check.
Various other items packed? Check.
Diet successful and 10 pounds lost? Umm, never mind.
I realize that part of my stress comes from my attempting to anticipate the things we will need and bringing them without overpacking. For example, I don't want to buy bug spray or sunscreen when we've got plenty of that here at home. Stuff like that. Plus, is it really necessary to bring my bird watching scope, tripod and window mount? Well, actually, yes, I think it is.
It's the last minute stuff that seems to consume so much of my time. There are a lot of little odds and ends to remember. The girls and I are leaving tomorrow morning, hopefully at 6:00am to drive down. The men will follow next week, flying into Orlando. If we forget something at least it's comforting to know that they can bring it with them.
Well, the clock is ticking so I'd better get back to work!
5 comments:
You are so organized!!!
If it is any consolation--I am not organized and still get stressed before trips, etc.
It has come to my attention that you remind me so much of another blogger I follow. Her blog is called Feild Lily: http://fieldlilyx.blogspot.com/
You may want to check her out...I think you have a lot in common.
Anyway--just wanted to say thanks for the sweet and encouraging comments you are faithful to leave on my blog. It really means a lot!
Keelie
Oh my goodness, you are going to be gone for an entire month??? That just makes my brain hurt to think of all the lists that I would be making if we would be gone for that long. I am so like you, bring stuff from home so I don't have to buy it! And yes, you need to bring the bird stuff as they are migrating now and you will get to see some wonderful birds.
Good luck getting off and with your drive. I will pray for safe travels for you and your entire family.
Kate
First of all, I think the dog is wondering which item she could pull OUT of the suitcase (unnoticed by you of course) so that SHE could get in the suitcase. It's the 'ole "why me" look they like to give. Second, make sure you load the school books in the car, unlike my sweetest who left that particular bag with the childrens extra shoes out of the trunk (and off to Georgia we went!). Third, when I read your profile, I thought, "There's another ME in this world!" I practically could have put my picture over yours. Lastly, it's great to have you over at Field Lily. I will enjoy watching what happens in your world. God's best, Kathy
Jodie,
I am so like you. Lists, lists everywhere and I still forget stuff.
I have a friend who typed up lists on the computer for when they would go on vacation (like camping vacation lists or flying vacation lists) so that the everyday things didn't get forgotten. Worked great for her.
I hope you'll have your laptop with you so you can post pictures of whatever warm weather you can send our way. Have a great time!
An ENTIRE month? That is absolutely fabulous. Hope you have a fantastic time.
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