Tuesday, March 6, 2012

The Stress of Family Vacations

Our family has had the opportunity to go on some really great vacations throughout our lives.  I am always amazed how stressful things get just before we are to go on a family vacation.  Aren't vacations meant for relaxing, having fun and making memories?  Why then is it so stressful getting ready for it?

A few days before we are to leave we get all the suitcases down from the closets and start the packing process.  Thank goodness my kids are old enough now that they can pack for themselves. I do always have to go over all the necessities that they need to pack.  Do you have your swim suit?  Did you pack your church clothes?  Did you remember your sandals?  Don't forget your headphones.  Remember your toothbrush. Pack enough underwear. The list goes on and on. 

It is a lot of work to get a family ready to leave on vacation. Don't get me wrong I am so grateful we get to go on vacation. But seriously does it have to be so stressful? You have to make sure the dogs are cared for. You have to have the mail and the newspaper stopped. You inform the neighbors to watch your house.  You have to get people to cover for you at church. You have to confirm flights.  Arrange transportation. Send in a vacation watch request to the police. Unplug all the appliances. Throw out perishables in the fridge. Empty the garbage. Turn some lights on. Turn the heat down. Make sure the dogs have enough dog food and water. Turn some music on in the house. I am sure I have left a few things out but I think you get the just of what I am saying. 

Vacations are the best and I would not trade the time I am going to get to spend with my family for anything.  I just wish it could be a little easier the few days before we leave.  So here is to family vacations: 

"A family vacation is one where you arrive with five bags, three 

kids and seven I-thought-you-packed-its."


By the way did I happen to mention where we are going?  We are heading to Hawaii for eight days.  We are going to the island of Oahu. We are staying at a beach house on Hukilau Beach in Laie


So get me through this week of stress so I can actually relax and enjoy the fun we as a family are going to have.  And if we forget something then oh well we must have not needed it anyway!  Aloha!

"Yes we are going to a Hukilau, a Huki Huki Huki Huki Hukilau!"

3 comments:

michelle said...

I totally can relate, about the stress of leaving town. The list goes on and on and on and on..etc. :) Have tons of FUN in Hawaii!!!!!! I can't wait to hear all about it!

Tami said...

Tonya, there is a Walmart in Hawaii...don't stress!! Besides, if this is where you are staying, all you need is a swimsuit, a camera, and a good book! Have a great time!!

Pj said...

Have a wonderful time! I hope you get to see some whales. My son lives in Maui, and I'll be going to see him for the first time this May. It will be one of many trips, as they are expecting my first grandchild. What a good excuse to go to Hawaii for me!
Have a Stress-Free week!!
Penni