Travel for Fun

Last year, my husband was able to take a few days off and we were thinking of all of the wonderful places that we could go.  And then we started calculating the expenses, and we looked at each other in horror.  Where could we afford to go with the kids?  Even though he had these vacation days, it didn't mean we could just go galavanting around.  What would we do?  And then we came up with the idea of traveling in our own backyard.  We live in a place that has tons to offer. Why do we always think we need to go far away, and ignore the splendor around us?  And, so that's what we did.  We found out about 5 different interesting things to do right here, near home, and we made a day trip each day.  We slept in our own, cozy beds each night and then got up with renewed excitement in the morning.  Where should we go today became our mantra that week.

And it was great!  The kids really enjoyed seeing new things.  But, you know what we found most interesting?  They also enjoyed coming home at night to their own toys and their own beds.  They love breaking from the routine and having time to do things that are fun - but they also like having the things they know and like around them.  So, without spending much at all, we had a great week and felt refreshed at the end of it.

Obviously, you don't want to do this type of vacation all the time.  But, it is a great way to enjoy a vacation once in a while without too much expense or pressure.  Enjoy!

I always dread when we travel.  I know that sounds funny - crazy even!  It's a great opportunity to travel, to leave work behind and to enjoy.  But the preparation - the preparation nearly kills me each time.  Packing up an entire family and getting them ready to go somewhere is no easy task.  There are, however, a few things that you can do to make it an easier experience.  Let's take a look at some of these.  Each one takes one.  That's my family's motto.  What does it mean?  Well, each family member gets one item to pack and carry.  If you end up bringing 20 pairs of underwear and no shirts - then I guess you are going to look quite funny on our trip.  Even when the kids were really little, we would give each of them a backpack and tell them that this was their special bag. They could pack whatever they wanted here - but the rule was that they had to carry it.  So, they better pack well and not bring too much.  We found that they took responsibility for this item well and made sure to take care of the things that they brought.  When the kids are older, you can make them in charge of an entire suitcase and allow them to carry it around - it's not your responsibility and it makes things a lot easier.

Also - consider where you are going.  If there is any way to wash laundry, don't bring too much stuff.  Yes, you will wear the same thing over again, but who cares?  Packing light is really one of the best ways to minimize the stress of packing and traveling.  If there isn't anywhere to get things laundered, then try to keep your clothes down to a minimum - and certainly keep your shoes down.  Yes, maybe at home you like to wear a nice pair of dress shoes when you go out to dinner.  Well, you can go without on this trip.  I recommend getting by on two pair of shoes - period.

Hope these two simple tips help for the next trip you go on.  Now, if I can only take my own advice, maybe I'll be less stressed as I pack for that next trip!

Bon Voyage!