The schmaltz around this here blog surrounding Dave’s birthday and our anniversary has gotten pretty thick. But I can’t help myself, I’m writing about Dave again. Don’t worry, this is quick and not schmaltzy.
We went on vacation last week and I couldn’t believe the difference in our packing lists. Prize (the No Shit Award) for first correct guess as to which one is Dave’s…
No seriously, check out Dave’s packing list.
When I saw it, I couldn’t help but wonder aloud, “Are you still working on this?” Nope, he was done. I wish I could be as carefree as “yep, just need some ‘sox’ and my guitar and I’m all set.” Instead, I agonize over whether we are forgetting anything. Say, for example, Dave’s toothbrush, which somehow didn’t make his list.
Since these are lame photos and since our vacation was wonderful and worth documenting, here is our little family self-portrait at the beach. I wasn’t going to bother trying to get a shot of all three of us, but then was inspired on our last night by the enormous family (at least I assumed they were family because there is no excuse for the matching outfits otherwise) doing a self-portrait at sunset. Can’t tell you how many tries this took. We really suck at self-portraits. My camera doesn’t seem to want to focus on us. And trying to get Chuck to look at the camera when we are behind him is always fun. At some point, in my haste to get into position after setting the timer, I accidentally slammed my knee down on the sand way. too. hard. What a great photo that was.
Where’s your favorite vacation spot? First week back after vacation’s a bitch, no? Any ideas for easing back in more smoothly, because I seriously want to run to the hills and not come back?
What a wonderful vacay! I get teased for my pages of lists when planning for a trip.
Popping in from Write On Edge weekend link-up.
I really had a good chuckle when I saw your holiday lists.
Love your light writing style/voice in this piece.
http://writer-in-transit.co.za/bubble-bravado/
As always you made me burst out in a big chuckle! The line about the family with matching outfits.
I love making lists and planning, so my list looks just like yours!
I find that if I don’t make a list, I overpack and wear about 50% of the clothes I brought. Whereas if I make a detailed list, I pack really well and I’m prepared for anything, and end up using 90% of what I packed.
The multiple shots was worth it – the photo above is a great one – definitely belongs in a frame.
As for easing back into the grind, I usually have a hard time with that too. I recommend giving yourself a break for the first week or so (is that already up?) – as in, go home and watch a movie after work instead of busting through a to-do list. Or whatever helps you zone out & reconnect to your inner creative soul. Write more that first week and don’t worry about household chores or all that other b.s. that we usually need to attend to on a daily basis. Use the creative/spritual energy you gathered on your vacation in some way – create something tangible (a story is tangible) – and see the benefits of taking time off.
And, keep making us (your readers) laugh and cry. That one is pretty selfish, but must be included in the list.