I Want to Get Away . . . I Want to Fly Away
Jul 26th 2010
LoriHandelandLori Handeland
I’ve been hearing that song for two weeks now. Yes, the time has come for my annual get away to RWA.
In the past I’ve talked about how much I love RWA. But today I want to talk about how much time it takes to get ready to go there. At least a week, maybe closer to two depending on how good I’ve been about stockpiling outfits all year long.
Once I have my schedule set, I match clothes. If Im short, I must shop.
Next I need to match shoes and jewelry to each outfit. If I’m short . . . see above.
Then there’s the coloring of the hair, which I’ve been putting off in order to get the ultimate benefit out of the touch up and highlights. I need to look horrific by the time I sit in that chair. Since my mom took one look at me Friday and said “oh, witchy,” I think I made it.
Following the hair we have the nails–hand and foot–the waxing–use your imagination–or don’t. (I wouldn’t.)
Two days before, I check to make sure everything fits in the bag and weighs under 50 pounds. I make sure I have all my electronics up to date, all my cords confiscated from various rooms where they have wandered off to. My current WIP loaded onto the laptop. All my notes in the computer case. A book for the plane.
In the past, I needed to make sure the kids were parceled out and accounted for. The dog dealt with. The refrigerator stocked. Now I just leave. They’re 18, 21, 48 and 77 in dog years. Deal with it. Because I’m leaving them to “deal with it” I also don’t have to stop the mail, lock the house, make sure the neighbors know we’re gone, get someone to water the plants.
Though the trip takes forever to get ready for, it’s still easier than when we all pile in the car, or on a plane and fly away.
What do you do to make sure your house, family, significant furry other is taken care of when you get away? And who’s going to RWA?
Woot! It’s almost here!
41 Comments »
41 Responses to “I Want to Get Away . . . I Want to Fly Away”
KellyProellocks on 26 Jul 2010 at 3:21 am #
I don’t go away. Not anymore. The last time that I did and I had a fur baby, the person who I asked to feed my cat didn’t feed him. After I blew up at him he apologized. Yeah I have a shocking temper, especially when it comes to my cats. Anyhoo after it happen two more times I swore that I was never going away overnight again. Besides I am somewhat obsessive compulsive about mattresses and pillows in hotels. I really don’t think that they are clean enough and the risk of bedbugs? No thanks! I want to be at RWA but darn it I am in Australia. (I’m pouting at that)
Judy F on 26 Jul 2010 at 3:33 am #
I wish I was going. Have fun for me.
Last time i took a vacation I got my niece to come and feed my cat. It was only a long weekend and she came over every day. So it worked out. But he didn’t eat a thing the whole weekend. Cause he was mad.
Freshechelle on 26 Jul 2010 at 4:46 am #
As much as I’d really enjoy meeting many of you at RWA, going to hot, humid, sticky Orlando in the summer by choice? That’s very “out of the frying pan, into the fire”.
I’m a frequent traveler and a solo act so I buy most toiletries in twos and keep a kit packed, I’ve got duplicates on my power cords which I keep in my suitcase along with a brush and slippers (the things I’ve most often forgotten). Leaving the house doesn’t require much planning but I did just plant my first seeds so guess I’ll have to change my ways.
Lisa Hill on 26 Jul 2010 at 5:30 am #
Lori,
I wish I could go! Waaaa! I am needed at home. I have three children, and someone has to take care of them…since I’m their mama, I guess it’s gotta be me.
My packing, hair, nails, computer, book routine is very simaler to yours. I am planning on going to the NJ Conference in October to see Claudia and Madeline, and am already planning my wardrobe.
I hope you all have a wonderful time. The Swan and Dolphin hotels are lovely!
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 5:39 am #
Kelly–the fur babies are usually the issue. Ours is so old he doesn’t like to leave home so we need to get someone to come in and even then, he’s pretty twitchy for weeks after we get home. It makes me feel bad. It’s nice when I can get away and he can stay home with the boys and have his love.
They do that, don’t they, Judyf? I suppose they have no idea where we went and even if they did know they’d wonder why they couldn’t go too. Hence the mad.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 5:41 am #
Fresh–good idea about the power cords. If there’s always a set in the suitcase, then they aren’t forgotten.
I hear ya about the kids, Lisa. Now I don’t think mine will notice I’m gone until the fridge turns up empty. I’ve always wanted to go to the NJ conference. I heard it’s great.
Kim on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:28 am #
I think I plan for RWA all year long. LOL. I definitely keep an eye on the clothing clearance sales and pick up stuff all year. As for actual packing, usually a month before I leave, I start packing stuff up. My lists start way before that. Have I mentioned that I’m an overthinker?
Sabrina Jeffries on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:33 am #
Had to laugh at today’s blog! Here’s my schedule for today:
No swimming, because the pool doesn’t open until 10 and that’s when my hair appt. is. Instead, I’m on the treadmill writing this (no small feat at the speed I’m walking, trust me).
As soon as I get off, I’ll shower and head off for my appt. Then lunch. Then all sorts of last minute prep. Then nails done at 4 with Deb Marlowe.
Then packing and redoing my purse. This year, I’m doing much better than usual–I have my clothes all chosen (no last minute purchases needed) and my jewelry packed in the jewelry bag labeled by day. My shoes are picked, and we shipped off a box of promo stuff to the hotel so we wouldn’t have to pack it. I might actually get to bed at a decent hour!
No laptop this year (can’t believe you’re bringing yours!). I won’t have a moment to spare for the book. Good thing I’m caught up on it, huh?
kris on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:34 am #
When I travel, I will typically do the same as you do….hair, nails, waxing, extreme outfit coordination, etc. Last week I was in Jersey for my daughter’s national dance competition. I spent the better part of two weeks prior ensuring every dance item was properly sequestered for pending travel. Hubby stayed home, so no animal, mail, etc. issues. I even left him a honey-do (water my tomato plants, fix my drawer handle). My daughter asked to bring some extra things, to which I replied “no, daddy’s not coming, so there is no one to carry that”. It was a car trip, but with all the dance paraphenalia, I had to stow the rear seats of the mini-van to fit everything in. Took me 5 trips to get everything into the beach condo we rented for the week.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:36 am #
So bummed you won’t be there, Kim! But I’m glad to know someone starts packing way before I do! LOL!
Sabrina–oldest son picked up a sheet of paper I had laying on my dresser, glanced at it and said, “You write down what you’re wearing each day?” Well, yeah. I like the labeling of the jewelry. Good one!
AmyS on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:39 am #
I always get frazzled when it is time to go away. It was easy when it was just me and my husband, but now with 2 kids, it has become kind of a pain. Especially, with one being a baby and everything that has to be dragged along when you travel with a baby. Gone are the days of throwing clothes in a bag and going. I have learned that kids require toys, snacks and videos, among other things.
My dog always stays with my mom when we are away, so I know that he is taken care of. The cats take care of themselves, but I do have a neighbour come in to feed and water them if we are going to be away for more then a few days.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:42 am #
I can’t imagine all you’d have to coordinate for those dance competitions, Kris. Lucky you could drive there!
I still bring snacks, videos and toys along, AmyS. They’re just big boy snacks, videos like SAVING PRIVATE RYAN and ipods.
Michelle B on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:45 am #
If it is just me traveling, it looks very similar to your routine, Lori. Only I have to plan my hair coloring way in advance to get an appointment. Very important. If it’s the whole family we are talking lists of stuff. If driving, the miniature poodle comes along. Otherwise I hire a neighborhood teen to take care of the pooch.
I am still so disappointed that RWA got moved from Nashville. (darn that flood) My sister planned her vacation back in January to come see me and we were going to drive the 2 hours to the Literacy signing. Orlando is too far a drive and she flies home the next day. Maybe next year.
Sue on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:48 am #
Our last trip was an overnighter to a family wedding, but we had to board the dog which involved dog food, a toy and her bedding. And she cries like the baby she is when we leave her, too. Makes me feel soooo guilty! But we know she’s being well cared for. When we travel, we simply close the front door and walk out since it’s just the two of us. All packing is left to one or two nights before leaving. If I left it up to my DH it would all be tossed in the suitcase ten minutes before leaving the house! I have a really neat carry on bag specifically designed for makeup, toiletries, pills, etc. It stays packed with a lot of stuff. I always take at least one book to read although I seldom find the time when we vacation to read for some reason.
Claudia Dain on 26 Jul 2010 at 7:39 am #
I water the potted plants. If I don’t do it, no one will. With temps in the 100s here, I’m hoping the little, helpless darlings can make it until I get back on Sunday. I watered them heavily last night, once the temps had gone down to 90. I’ll try to give them another long drink tonight, but if my nails are wet…well, hang on, plants! Try to conserve your strength! Take tiny sips! I’ll be back in 6 days!
Going to RWA? You bettcha! I’m still dithering over what to pack, still picking nail polish colors, still trying to pare down my shoe essentials. Packing light…it’s like a calling with me.
Kathy on 26 Jul 2010 at 7:46 am #
I hardly travel anymore so when I do, I start gathering things up incredibly early- as in month or weeks before the trip. basically, as soon as I know I’m going somewhere for more than one day, I start packing.
I might be going away Thursday to PEI. not sure yet and my fur baby will need some care. my friend will do it while she is still in town, but she leaves Saturday, and everyone else in the house is gone away too. time to call in a niece favour. good thing I have 5 to choose from.
I wish I was going to RWA, but hot,humid & kathy mix into this massive cranky sweaty beast.
my Fairy Princess friends are planning a trip to Cuba in Feb and I told them point blank- I don’t do hot. so one of the Princesses sisters will be taking my place with my blessing!lol
Pesky on 26 Jul 2010 at 8:01 am #
Things on my To Do List for annual 2 wk campout with friends:
1. Downsize: Every year I downsize just a little bit more and more. I realize that I relish the trip to the laundrymat 1/2 way through the event and just before I leave soooooo….no need to bring enough clothing to outfit the british army. (As much as I love my friends I need to get away to town all by myself a couple of times. I neeeeeeed to do that.
)
2. Batteries. You can never have too many batteries. Batteries are the modern form of wampum in the camp barter system.
3. Bug Spray. I know it’s ecologically unsound to use it, but I swear the mosquitoes sit in the woods waiting for me to come out. No! Really! I hear them…”Shhhhh…here she comes. Pesky, the other white meat.” Freaking feral vampirelike creatures. Bet they sparkle in the sunlight.
4. Flip Flops: This is the search for the pair of the cheapest shower flops I can find. They’re going in the garbage last day, there’s stuff on the shower floor you just don’t want to bring home.
5. Buy Earplugs. People forget that the tent walls are cloth. REALLY thin cloth. Don’t ask, please for all that’s holy, don’t tell.
cail on 26 Jul 2010 at 8:19 am #
I have a typed packing list with summer and winter options at the end. I use that for big trips and just go around the house checking things off. I sometimes pack a nice dress, but more often than not we’re usually roughing it for most of the trip. For instance, last summer, by the time I got to Halifax (and met up with Kathy) I had probably worn (and washed by hand) the shirt that she saw me in two or three times. I mix and match my tshirts and pants. We tend to camp in a different location each night.
When I went to DC last year for the signing and party, I did make sure I brought a cute sundress to wear. I tend to throw one in most of the time when I go somewhere that doesn’t involve sleeping on the ground.
I wish I was going to Orlando to see all you ladies, but that would involve flying instead of an awesome road trip where I could visit friends (nashville) and so I will have to wait till NYC next year. Plus, to echo Fresh, I don’t go there in the summer. Can’t wait to see you all again next year in the city!
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 8:25 am #
Im bummed about Nashville, too, Michelle. I so wanted to see that hotel. And now I’ll be in FL three times this year. Not something I would ever have chosen.
Vacation seems to be the only time I get to read anymore, Sue. But I’m always up earlier than everyone so that works. Which is also why I’m bringing the laptop.
I don’t think I’ll have to water my plants until the second coming around here, Claudia. But I know no one else would do it so it’s lucky they’re under water.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 8:27 am #
Kathy–I know what you mean about the hot and humid. I still remember the last time RWA was in Orlando and the condensation on the windows was so bad I couldn’t see outside. Shudder.
As a veteran of buying batteries at the gas station for outrageous prices I agree with Pesky that you can never bring too many batteries.
Will look forward to seeing you in NYC next year, Cail.
Sheridan on 26 Jul 2010 at 9:23 am #
Every year, I leave for 2-3 weeks, usually to another country. My main concern is my cat. Luckily, I have my upstairs neighbor and martini blog partner that loves him and takes care of him while I am gone and checks to make sure all is well in Sheridanland as I am frolicking in faraway lands.
She gets extra Jack the Cat time and Jack the Cat gets lots of belly rubs and extra treats, so I am sure it is a win-win on all sides.
I am not headed to RWA.. perhaps one year I will go on that adventure
It sounds like fun
nancyg on 26 Jul 2010 at 9:33 am #
Not going to RWA this year. We’re using our travel money for a friend’s Vegas wedding in September.
The kids are 19, 15, & 11, so they will be staying home “alone” this year. No boarding the dog, stopping the mail & newspaper, etc.
My parents live next door, so they are on stand-by status for minor skirmishes/girl fights. I’m sure my mom will cook dinner at least 2 nights we’re gone. Dad’s retired & unofficial head of the neighborhood watch, so he’ll have both eyes turned toward our house.
My husband & I update our authorization for medical treatment, copies of insurance cards, etc. Cash for going out to eat, depending on how long we’ll be gone. E-mails to teachers saying no signed papers until we get back. List of flight numbers & times, phone numbers – where we’ll be staying, doctors, dentists, insurance agent, etc. on the front of the fridge.
Update family activity calendar for sports, Girl Scouts, school club meetings – arrange car pools with friends (paybacks are a bee-yatch!).
I’m already planning outfits w/accessories for our trip, which is over a month away. Hair & nails a week out. Will book golf tee times & massage at hotel spa about a week or two out.
Trini on 26 Jul 2010 at 9:39 am #
When I travel I do similar things, Lori. I write a list with all the clothes, shoes and things I will need… I think in my hear, my neals and I make a list of all the perfumes and colognes I’ll use… yes, maybe I’m a bit crazy…
I’m in Spain and in this moments I couldn’t go to the RWA …. and I don’t want to think about that because I could cry…. I’m very envious…. very very envious… I hope all you enjoy and, please, when you are all together think on me once…..
Nicole Jordan on 26 Jul 2010 at 9:49 am #
Hope you goddesses have a wonderful time at RWA! I’ll be rooting for Rachel and KarenR to win a RITA, and for Sabrina to knock her emcee duites out of the park.
Be sure to bring back lots of reports!
I’m staying home because my mare has a big horse show this week. And yes, Lori, seeing to the 4 legged critters usually takes more time and prep than anything else!
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 10:20 am #
Going away for 2-3 weeks to another country would no doubt send me into a major panic for over a month, Sheridan. Still, I wish . . .
We left the kids home for a week last summer, Nancyg. I figure it went well since the house was still standing, nothing was broken, the dog was alive and the cops didn’t come.
We will of course be thinking of all our Goddesses at the party, Trini. We’ll miss you.
Good luck to your mare, and you, in the big show, Nicole!
Kim in Hawaii on 26 Jul 2010 at 10:38 am #
Aloha! I have been “off island” since June, so I had to develop a strategic plan to pack for traveling kids, RomCon, RWA, and Florida heat.
I treated my children to a week at Disney in mid June – it was hot, humid, and crowded then so I can’t imagine anyone venturing out of the hotel (and ICE COLD AIR) during RWA.
But I suggest one item that we discovered as the key to survival – a handheld fan and squirt bottle combo that Disney sells for $17. It was the best investment!
And for the authors, we have a team of volunteers to keep you cool during the literacy signing!
Julia London on 26 Jul 2010 at 11:08 am #
Hey you guys! Have a great time in Orlando. I will be missing you and wishing I was there. But I will get lots of work done while my fellow goddesses get fat. HA.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 11:15 am #
You’ve been busy, Kim!! Good tip about the fan/squirt bottle. If I planned to leave the hotel I’d get one.
Fat AND drunk, Julia.
Wait, did I say that?
Sheridan on 26 Jul 2010 at 11:19 am #
Lori, I used to travel a lot for work and got tired of hauling heavy bags from place to place… then learning that giant bags in Europe and Asia are a nightmare (they won’t always fit through train turnstyles or into overhead slots on sleeper cars.. and you have to lift them up and over or into).. they also charge a lot for baggage overseas on smaller carriers and are strict on weight limits.
So I bring a medium sized suitcase and a backpack with my camera gear. I could go smaller, but then I would not have room for bringing back trinkets
Sabrina Jeffries on 26 Jul 2010 at 11:35 am #
Thank God you mentioned the plants, Claudia! Off to water mine!
Suzanne Enoch on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:02 pm #
My mom and my sister are going to take turns feeding my birds and fish, picking up the mail, and making sure my plants don’t croak.
I like the idea of packing, but the actual packing is a pain. I have a list I’ve kept for about 8 years and that does make things much easier, but I’ve still been known to pack up my make-up and then leave it on the counter. Sigh.
See you in 2 days, Lori!!
evlqn on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:12 pm #
I don’t travel much anymore but I am still a planner and list maker when I do. Because I was elbow deep in school work when our Fourth of July camping trip came up I let my sister do the bulk of the planning. So not doing that again. I keep most of my camping gear packed at all times, but a lot needed to be replaced or refreshed, time consuming.
I keep make-up kits and bath kits packed all the time because I don’t have to assemble them when i go see my son & DIL in Portland. I know in advance what I want to wear, on what day and pack accordingly. Always take at least one extra top that goes with everything for the emergency change after eating spaghetti sauce, you know “Eat a little, wear a little”.
I have a wonderful new flashlight, you crank it for power, it is also a radio, and it has attachments for powering up cell phones and MP3’s and Ipods. I love it!
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:14 pm #
That’s good to know about the bags being too large overseas, Sheridan. I hope to go someday and my suitcase if mammoth.
Suzie–I once packed my entire suitcase for a conference where I was speaking, got there, opened the back of the car and . . . yeah, no suitcase.
evlqn on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:17 pm #
When we camped it was only a ten minute drive from our house , so we came in twice a day to take care of the furries. If it had been further out we would have have a friend come in to take care of them.
Madeline Hunter on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:17 pm #
I am going. I have not begun to pack. I have not done all the shopping. I leave tomorrow early afternoon. HELP!
elsiehogarth on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:19 pm #
Everyone have a great time, in Orlando, at RWA. Next year New York and I will definitely be there.
The only thing that I do whenever I go away is water the plants and stop the mail. My godson Jeffrey has my house key so he goes and checks on my house. He has been my “gate keeper” since he was very young. One of my treasured keepsakes, of his, that makes me cry is a message he recorded at age 4 telling me how he checked everything and ending it with: I love you Aunt Elsie.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:26 pm #
I have the extra outfit, Evlqn, just in case I spill, which you know I would if I didn’t have the extra outfit.
Eeek, Madeline! Good luck.
What a sweet keepsake, Elsie! How cute.
Catherine on 26 Jul 2010 at 1:45 pm #
One main thing we do when we go on trips–turn off water to the house!!!
Having gone through 2! water/flood issues–luckily I was home for both, I can’t imagine coming home to a broken washing machine hose
Enjoy Orlando!!!
Trini on 26 Jul 2010 at 2:30 pm #
Thanks Lori. Please don’t forget to make photos… I think all we’ll like to see pics…. Dear Goddess, I hope you enjoy very much!!!!
Freshechelle on 26 Jul 2010 at 5:18 pm #
Oh next year is NYC? I’ll be there!!! I’ll be offering my guest room in return for Autographed ARCs.
LoriHandeland on 26 Jul 2010 at 6:41 pm #
Thanks, Catherine. That’s one think we are lucky enough not to have happened. We get enough water in the house when it rains.
Mucho pics, Trini. Check.
Yes, Fresh. NYC. see you there.