It's no secret that old man winter is on the very last nerve of just about everyone in the country this year. We have so much snow in our yard that if the dog sunk through to the ground, he'd be lost until April. You can't even go to normal winter retreats this winter, like Dallas and Atlanta, without getting hit with snow and ice, for crying out loud. To that end, it's time to get away for a nice little break we like to call vacation. And as I make my packing list for the trip, I am also making a mental note of those things that most certainly will NOT be accompanying me on this trip.
1. Antibiotics (or any type of cold/flu meds for that matter, including the Neti Pot). We are currently six weeks into 2011 and I have been sick for approximately five of those weeks. Between the flu, a cold, and then a sinus infection, I'm so done with being sick. The only thing I plan to take with me is Dramamine for the flight because honestly, I'd rather not be alert for that part of the trip.
2. Boots, my Eddie Bauer down coat, or any other cold-weater gear that makes me look like the little brother, Randy, from A Christmas Story. Now granted, I'm not exactly going someplace tropical. Utah is known for still having snow this time of year. However, the majority of that snow stays in the mountains, where it belongs, so the spring skiers can enjoy it and I won't have to deal with it at the lower elevations. It's a win-win.
3. The dog. We have actually talked about taking the dog with us on several occasions. He's our baby and I'm sure he would like to meet his grandparents at some point. However, he would still need to be fed, watered, walked, and treated to numerous kongs throughout the day. Not exactly relaxing for mom and dad. Not to mention the extra cost and potential headache of flying with a terrier across the country. Luckily for us, we can board him at the equivalent of a five-star resort, where he will be treated like the little prince he thinks he is, and mom and dad can get a much needed parenting break. How many of you with actual 3 year old children can just drop them off on the way to the airport and come home a week later to a freshly groomed child? Furry children are a wonderful thing.
My hope in leaving these items at home is that I will be able to relax and enjoy our much-needed winter break. Plus, without all of this extra stuff taking up space in my suitcase, I now have room for everything I'm going to buy when mom and I go shopping!
