Not a Question, Just a Statement... Help!!

I do all the packing and work too...I almost think it is normal. But at dinner, I have no problem ordering a cocktail and then Dad knows he has to take over. I know every bit of what I am doing =]

Haven't read the replies, but a "trip" is with kids... a "vacation" is without! Hope you have a good "trip"! :)

I just wish I was going on a vacation this year... sigh...

Have a wonderful time. For some sick reason, packing and prepping, for me, is part of the fun and anticipation... It's like the beginning of the vacation...

I have a friend who always says..."It's not a vacation...it's a family trip!"
LOL...so true!!!

J., this may not be what you are looking for right now, but something to think/dream about.

6 years ago a friend of mine invited me on a 'girls trip.' My kids at the time were older than it sounds like yours are at 10 and 14. At first I told my friend no, I just couldn't see how I could do it, financially or time wise. I'd be gone 10 days! My husband actually encouraged me to go and figured out a way we could do it financially.

It is to date, THE BEST VACATION I HAVE EVER BEEN ON!!!
We do travel, a lot as a family. We've been on cruises and traveled internationally to Japan. But I think what made this vacation so special to me was it was the first time in my life that I had NO responsibilities! The ONLY decisions I had to make was what time I was getting up, which swim suit I was putting on and what time I was going to bed.

Just get through the next few years and start planning with a girlfriend a girls only get away.

If you are still on! This intervention!! Turn off the computer, go ahead do it!!!!! NO!! Don't hesitate Just do it!!!!! Then walk away!!! Yes, get out of that chair. GOOO Pack and have a great trip.

Yes, I know what you mean. I stay on it late! Check often and often sit here when I should be working. I did it before I discovered Mamapedia and it is even worse now. I mean there is just sooooo much information out on the web and of course I HAVE to check my email 100 times a day. I am addicted to my computer and it has become worse since I discovered Mamapedia a few weeks ago. I have finally found some adults to converse with instead of small children. I'm having so much fun. I need to be doing laundry, dishes, cooking supper, etc. Help!!!!!

Now get off the computer!!! I am going to make myself start supper now and unload the dishwasher and another load of laundry. I will walk away!!! I can do it!!!! Ha! Ha!

LOL. Hugs.

As a matter of fact, I've been "enjoying" (per your requisites, sleeping in, laying out, great books, great dinners, etc) vacations for a couple years now. Kiddo is 8.

Don't worry! They really DO get more independent! I promise! <laughing> As a matter of fact, the only reason I get up before 10am is because I choose to (and I'll often also sleep to 10). Kiddo is MORE than capable enough to wake up, feed himself breakfast, wash his face, brush his teeth, get dressed, do his chores, and either start school work or pop in a movie and just be *grinning* at me when I come downstairs.

Enjoy these family vacations now. Your kids are only this little once -- before you know it they'll be teenagers who'd rather spend time with their friends, and then they're out of the nest. Unbelievable how fast the time flies!

My husband and I are already discussing the romantic trip to Italy we're going to take when the youngest ones are grown and on their own. (and even if we "elderly" folks don't have much energy for romance, I'm really looking forward to the food!)

J.,
This is what I use from "FlyLady.org" (I will cut and paste for you). It's amazing. I have mine in a plastic sheet to save for all trips. - Lucy B.

Vacation Planning and Packing List
Is getting ready to leave on vacation a pain in the bottom to you?

Do you run around with your head cut off for several days prior to your departure time, not knowing which way to turn?

Are you irritable and snapping at your loved ones?

Do you pack everything but the kitchen sink?
This is a characteristic of a SHE. I have done this so many times. Several years ago it would take me 2 weeks to pack for a 2 week vacation. In the end I was so exhausted, I just wanted to crash. So, I have some tips for you.

1. SIT DOWN with a pen and paper and PLAN! 15 minutes planning gets rid of the “Chicken with the head cut off" syndrome!

2. Break your list into 4 parts or use 4 separate pages.
• Things to do before you pack
• Things you will need to pack.
• Things to do before you leave.
• Things to do when you get home.

The things you need to do before you pack are:
• Make sure all of your clothes are clean and put away.
• The house is in good order: Everything in its place.
• Make a grocery list of food that you take with you and buy it.
• Take care of your pet’s needs, Sitter, or boarding and their food. This will be out of the way.
• Notify post office that you will be out of town and to hold your mail, or asked a trusted person to pick up your mail and newspapers.
• Do you have the directions printed out from MapQuest and in your planner?
• Get car serviced and filled up. If you are going in the car.
• If you are flying make sure your tickets are in order and in your planner or purse. What time do you need to be at the airport? What time do you need to leave the house to get to the airport on time?

4. Things you need to pack.
• I use 3X5s for this one. Each family member gets a card. On this card I list everything that needs to be packed for this person. If they have a favorite toy, golf clubs, fishing gear, clothes and favorite snack.

• Then I make a card that is labeled: Food to take.
• When you are figuring on the outfits for each person, be sure to check your itinerary for places that you will need dress clothes Church, Fancy Restaurants, etc. Don't forget bathing suits, beach towels and beach shoes. If you don't have access to a washer, you may have to pack an outfit for each day, unless the kids are going to be in their bathing suits all day.LOL Then you will need to take a couple of them.

• Now for your clothes. Keep it simple, Mix and match your outfits then you will have less to take. Keep your makeup and hair care items to a bare minimum. Don't forget a hat and sunscreen if you are going to be outside a lot. How about a book or magazine to read?

• Husband, sometimes they need to pack for themselves, but make a list just in case and double check. He will be happy you are looking out for his needs too.

• Don't forget medications and a small first aide kit. I would put all of this stuff in one bag, I called my bathroom bag. My rule of thumb is one Medium bag per person. Plus a Mother bag to take care of odds and ends stuff.(carry-on tote)

5. Things to do before you leave:
• Set your FlyLadyMentors Email up to "No Mail". Go to "Contact Us" to find out how.
• I like to change all the sheets so that when you get home your bed is nice and welcoming. I do this the day before I leave. No time when you are leaving early in the morning.
• Make sure the house is clean and sparkling, so when you walk in the door you are not blown away by a messy house.
• Put Mr. Clean or Pinesol in each of your toilets and pour a little in your drains. Use something you like to smell. This will keep your house from smelling bad from stagnant water. If you leave pets in the house, put the lids down on the toilet.
• I would throw the breaker for our hot water heater if I were going to be gone for 2 or more weeks.
• Also turn the air conditioner up to about 85 degrees or completely off.
• Check your freezer to make sure the door is closed. Don't ask me why I do this, all I will tell you is it is not fun to come home to a freezer full of spoiled food. Then tape it shut.

6. Make a note of the things to do when you get home and leave it on the kitchen counter.
• Turn on Air Cond and water heater. Unpack car as soon as you get home or it could be weeks before it is done. LOL
• When you get the suitcases in the house. Start a load of laundry before you crash. I make sure my bags are unpacked as soon as I walk in the door. If I don't I will be living out of my suitcase for another week.
• Reset your egroup FlyLadyMentors email to your setting.
• Then start your week over just like it was Sunday afternoon. Make out your basic weekly plan. Life is back to normal. Don't forget your routines. Now is not the time to fall off the routine wagon.
• So jump back in and start over. Put this stuff on the return home note on your Kitchen counter. This way you will not have to remember it and it will be just like you are being bossed by someone. LOL
I know this looks like a lot to do. But these are things you already knew about. When they are in black and white they are not as scary. Now you have a plan. Whenever you need to get ready for a trip, Drag this out and use this. Put it your planner for just those occasions. Put the lists in a sheet protector and slide the note cards in with them.
That way you will not have to reinvent the wheel each time you travel. You will just need to adjust for your destination. Have a great vacation and don’t forget to take some time for yourself.
FlyLady

Packing List
Here is a wonderful Packing list from My Very Dear Friend. For staying in a condo at the beach. You will have to adapt it to your vacation. Feel free to copy and paste it into Word.
BASIC PACKING LIST
• ____ask neighbor to bring in recycle, paper and mail
• ____make dog reservation
• ____clean out dog kennel
• ____pack dog's food, treats, leash (or cat's)
CLOTHES
• ____changes of clothes
• ____sets of underwear (underpants, socks, undershirts, bras, slips, jock straps)
• ____sleep shirts/pjs
• ____dress outfits (pantyhose/tights)
• ____shoes (tennis, sandals, dress, slippers)
• ____robes (swim cover ups)
• ____special sports wear (tennis, golf, skiing)
• ____swimsuits
• ____swim towels
• ____goggles, swimmies
• ____sweat suits
• ____sweaters
• ____jackets
• ____heavy coats, mittens, hats, boots
• ____
• ____
TOILETRIES
• ____toothbrushes
• ____toothpaste
• ____deodorant
• ____hairbrush
• ____hair things
• ____shampoo
• ____bubble bath
• ____lotion
• ____bug spray
• ____sun block
• ____lipstick
• ____medications
• ____nail file
• ____contacts/case/solutions
• ____shaving kit
• ____make up bag
• ____
• ____
FOOD
• ____water
• ____lidded cups
• ____bowls, spoons
• ____pnut butter
• ____knife, spoon
• ____cereal, milk
• ____raisins
• ____paper towels
• ____tissue
• ____Kitchen Disinfectant
• ____Candle
• ____napkins
• ____crackers
• ____cereal
• ____bread
• ____cheese
• ____drinks
MISC
• ____pillows
• ____sleeping bags
• ____videos
• ____cassettes
• ____cell phone, cord, charger
• ____books, magazines
• ____stamps, pen, paper
• ____sporting equipment: tennis racquets, balls, mitts, inflatable mattresses, toys,
• ____golf clubs
• ____Hostess gift(s)
• ____map(s)
• ____RESERVATION FORMS, RESERVATION #
• ____resort information

LAST MINUTE
• ____feed, water cat
• ____change litter
• ____take dog to kennel
• ____set VCR(s)
• ____turn on porch light, set timers
• ____clear answering machine
• ____water plants
• ____check doors, all appliances off
• ____turn down heat/air conditioning
• ____post card labels
• ____post card stamps
• ____bills that will be due while gone
• ____sufficient checks to pay bills
• ____stamps
• ____large garbage bags for dirty clothes
• ____laundry soap
• ____dryer sheets
• ____
EXTRA THINGS I NEED TO BRING/DO
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________
• ___________________________

Ha! I was just thinking the same thing as we were sitting in our SIL's aunts house on a "vacation" with my screaming 2 year old and 8 month old cause it was a different place and they wouldn't sleep.. Yeah! Great vacation!!! hehehehe! We did end up having a good time, but man, what a freaking process to get everything packed and then have to deal with sleeping issues on top of it!

Have a great time!

My husband and I plan a vacation JUST THE TWO OF US EVERY SUMMER!!!! We need the break bad by then, lol... We go somewhere within 3 hours of driving (in case we need to get back in a hurry) for 5 days... I look forward to my "alone" vacation with my husband.. I don't feel bad about it and I don't ever regret it.. I love my son to pieces but every now and then, I need a break from reality with just my husband~
I think it should be a requirement for all married couples with children to do a "adult only" vacation every year~ It charges up our batteries..

My cousin used to invite her little sister and I (the 3 of us were super close friends) when she went on vacation with her husband and 2 young children... We would get our own room, and they would get another. We would spend most of the vacation as a large group, but some of the time we (her sister and I) would watch the kids so she and hubby could have some alone time... We would also keep them in our room overnight a couple times so they could sleep in part of the time. Worked out great for everyone involved! (her sister and I were old enough that we paid for half of our expenses... the other half was considered "payment" for babysitting)

.

I love your post, it made me smile! I pack for the 6 of us with not much help. I was probably on here too when i was supposed to be packing...lol! Although i too love the vacations with our family.... i still feel like there is no break for the mom's. Hope you have a wonderful time... you can still sneak a cocktail or two in there ;)

After we got back from a family trip (a vacation for everybody but me) in July, I decided that I needed a vacation. A real one. Away from these kids (the ones I love, but need a break from), and one where I don't have to pack 4 suitcases and 2 extra bags for . Where I get to take a plane ride and nap if I want to, or even have a cocktail! Well it's going to happen for my birthday next year. I planned it already and paid for it and lined up my in-laws for the week to babysit, so my husband and I can take a cruise. Yay! I'm not trying to make you jealous, but just trying to give you an idea of what to do for your real vacation. Go ahead and plan one for yourself, or take your husband if you wish. ;) That's the only way we moms can have a "vacation". Anyway, have fun next week!

Yes, you will get vacations again--and even vacations with your children! It's hard when they're little because you are still "on duty", but even then, I enjoyed being away from our normal schedules and having my husband around and having time to relax and play together.
Nobody else mentioned this, but it helps to teach your children to pack their own suitcases. I was working with my son on this skill when he was 8--his 4yo sister took in what I was saying, and went and packed her own suitcase, and did a good job of it. From then on, they packed their own suitcases. I supervised and made sure they knew what kinds of things they would need, but that was MUCH easier than packing for all of us!

Not an Answer: Just a Statement!

I get so resentful that my husband goes to work and can focus on just that one thing. Put all his energies into his work. On the other hand I am busy taking care of the house, the kids, the dog, my parents, his parents and extended family. Oh yeah.....and my part-time jobs.

Bottom Line: This is my choice. I want to be with the kids. I want to help my family. I love having a dog. The house.......well, somebody has to do it.

I understand my husband is tired when he gets home. He tries to help. He is sweet and considerate. But he still escapes the mania several hours every day!

I am resentful, yet I am grateful.... It's the American Dream

oh man GO PACK RIGHT NOW
i get a different kind of enjoyment. i do everything for the kids while on vacay but keep their bedtime the same, which is 7.30-8. that way i get my 2 hrs before bedtime.
have fun

Your post made me laugh. I really need to get back to work, but just keep reading too, and hoping that more questions come in, so that I can give my 2 cents. :) I would say that to enjoy your vacation, it depends where you go, and who is there. To totally get away, the kids wouldn't be there (I know I'm not ready for that yet), or they have to be a bit older. I remember vacations with my parents where all of us would just lounge and read or lay around by the pool.

I have one word for you: CRUISE!
Moms really do get some actual VACATION time in during a cruise with the family.
Have a great time!
A.

I love your post. LOL. We (hubby, myself and 4 kids (age: 2, 5, 6, 15) took a Disneyland/Universal Studios/Knotts Berry Farms vacation last month and I worked the entire time. There was absolutely NO time for me even during showers and bathroom breaks. lol. Although I worked every minute, I enjoyed seeing the kids have fun and hearing them talk about how much fun they had on the family vacation. After moaning to myself the first day, I realized that these times are to be treasured because they grow up so fast and we will never get those days back. Yes, in the end I needed a vacation from my vacation, but I figure in about another 16 years I will get one. :) Enjoy your vacation and your time with your family.

You get those vacations again...eventually. And it gets easier 'cause it's not like packing to move!! Aside from the basic luggage there's the entertainment in the car bad, the snacks in the car bag, the change of clothes in the car bag, the baby food bag, the diaper bag, the medicine bag...gosh I'm exhausted and I'm not even the one packing! We always end up leaving late.

But you will have fun! Have a really great time on your vacation!

Vacationing with the kids is hard but important.
Boy oh boy does life change after kids, huh?
When the kids are old enough, you and your hubby can take a short vacay for yourselves.
Now, walk away from the computer and get packing. Ha ha :)
Have fun!

I agree with Riley, when my daughter was 8, before baby #2 came along, we use to go out a lot including Disney and I really had fun.
It gets a lot easy when you don't have to change diapers and take breaks so the baby doesn't get grumpy.
the 3 of us got in the rides and everyone found something to eat for diner.
Now she is 12 and she is a lot easer and fun, but now we have baby #2 and I was lucky to get in "1" ride last time we went to a park.