I look forward to summer vacation with anticipation and adolescent patience. We enjoy sleeping late and random unhealthy meals. I work less so travel can integrate into our routine without many obstacles.
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va•ca•tion an extended period of recreation, especially one spent away from home or traveling.
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ob•li•ga•tion an act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment.
Oblication
You are staying with a relative. A four-star hotel with a pool and room service would be my first choice, but my mother insists that would be absurd. It’s been way too long since my last visit and she has a spare room that is perfect for me and my family. The reality is the craft crap room I organized on my last trip now has a mattress and tv.
Everyone. EVERYONE has to work. I am reminded of that when I make suggestions of touristy places to visit each day. Staying up late to play games and retell those ridiculous family stories is out of the question. I am the only one using my PTO this week.
Did I bring my scissors, so that I can cut hair, while I am ON VACATION? I did not. Doing taxes, tiling a bathroom and any direct sales meetings also fall into the category of “NOT A VACATION”.
Take charge
These simple guidelines can prevent stress and insure worthy oblication memories.
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Rent a car. I can plan events and tourism at my leisure. My host seems to appreciate the freedom this provides as much as I do.
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Research the area. Find out what makes the city interesting. There are many museums, concerts, and events available every day.
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Restaurants. Seek out one-of-kind diners to meet up with friends and family. Try a new dish at a familiar place. Don’t YOU take everyone to get a runza?
Just in case…
- Four incredible and loving cousins dressed in mom’s skirts and bonnets.
- One creative, soulful, and inspired auntie. Her selection of treasures might be mistaken for hoarding.
- A dedicated, courageous, and committed uncle sporting a kimono and man bun.
Shauna, you have described the modern day family and vacation issues perfectly! You have come up with some interesting and enjoyable solutions. I loved reading this!
When you come to Hannibal next week to lay the tile, could you do something for my hair? And I’ve got a king size bed set up in the spare room, so don’t be crazy and book a room at the hotel with a pool that is 5 minutes away. Love you, Mom
Oh I forgot to remind you, DON’T use the toilet or sink that we are storing in the guest room, they are not hooked up to anything!
Kudos to me for picking the best mom. Really did something right. Xoxo ps – could you write me next post?