AWOL

Yes, I’ve been gone but have made this a daily task so took a few days off, like I will again this weekend as we’re trying to get away for the first time in a couple of years.

Preparing to get away is going to take more time than the entire weekend on vacation! Prep the house, instructions for the dog, planning and packing and my husband knows nothing of it, only that his clothes are packed and passport is in place as he walks out the door.

One time we spent a night at a 1930’s CCC cabin in a forest. It probably burned down in the 1993 fires. It was the only one with electricity (one dim yellow bulb and a coffee pot). We had mice running around then something big and he wouldn’t let me get out the flashlight because… he didn’t want me to see how big this critter was!!!

I digress. We had a small charcoal grill, bought a stove, brought an air mattress, sheets, down comforter, food, kitchen utensils, cooler full of juices, water, bacon, eggs, you name it. I spent 24 hours packing for a 12-hour vacation. Hubby was amazed I made it through the night with all the critters as he was secretly waiting for me to signal STOP and go to a hotel. All said, I was a good sport and we never did that kind of trip again.

As a foodie and somewhat thrifty person, if we need to stay somewhere for a week, especially for work, I like a place with a semi-kitchen, like a Marriott Residence Inn. For longer term, Europe offers better options than the US ever does, like SACO with full housing and w/d in a flat with room to move around in. For a quick weekend I like a newer Holiday Inn Express (they don’t tell you about the newer ones) because it has a 1/2 frig so I can stock juice and something for breakfast and eliminate one meal out, and it has a safe for the laptops and passports.

So, yes, I plan on being AWOL for the weekend so offer you kind wishes for a happy St. Valentine’s Day and have many ideas so will be corresponding as they emerge. Cheers! Dee