Wednesday, September 17, 2008

My [new] Red Suitcase

I just purchased this happy little number. "Be different!" I concluded, rembering the times when collecting luggage from the baggage claim and watching endless rows of black upon black upon black suitcases file by, and grabbing the wrong bag numerless times....

So why would I post my latest red acquisition? But of course, it's a trip! A week from today we will be winging our way to parts eastward and me kicking and screaming at least half way there.

I came to the startling conclusion recently that I do not like to travel. I like my routine, I like sleeping in my own bed. I like my home. I hate long rides on airplanes and cars. I realized this when reflecting on trips as a child, I would either get sick or be unsettled for a few days prior to the trip. (i apologize mom!)

The following is time line that proceeds as soon as TL announces, "We're going to ........[you fill in the blank]

1. Six months to a year before trip: I am truly excited. I pencil in the dates. "Way cool!" I think. My enthusiasm depends upon how far away the trip is scheduled on the calendar.

2. Two to six months before the trip: I have managed to successfully ignore the fact that I am going on said trip in two to six months. I shove the thought of the trip out of my brain as soon as it touches my consciousness.

3. One month to two weeks before trip: I realize, yes, I have to face going on the trip. I begin to panic, as I realize that I have do schedule work, school, kids, church, appointments, food....etc. etc. I reluctantly begin to make plans.

4. Two weeks to one week before trip: My enthusiasm increases slightly when I purchase a few new clothes for trip, but then wanes when I realize I do have to go on said trip.

5. One week before trip: I panic, realizing I have one week left. I begin to think, "I can't go on this trip! I have x,y,z to do!" or "we can't afford to go on this trip!"

6. Night before trip: I finally pack, usually overpack, worrying that I might need some article of clothing or medicine on trip. I sleep restlessly.

7. Day of trip: We wake up early, I am groggy, pull myself together, stomach churning, to get to airport.

8. We take off: I finally relax a little, realizing that maybe it is okay to enjoy trip-but then realize we have ....... more hours until we get there.

9. Return home: Wow-we had an incredible time-but boy, am I glad to be home!

So just for fun, can you guess where we are going this time???? (No fair guessing immediate family-you already know!)

14 comments:

Jessica said...

Africa? I knew it!


p.s. this is not really the place. i just had to guess for fun :)

Debbie said...

how funny, I am the same way. Hmmm...how long has your missionary been out? Are you going to go pick him up maybe? I guess that or Hawaii.

Lori said...

Like the RED bag! No fair I am horrible at this...New York?

Pancake said...

I guess Nauvoo

Pancake said...

Cause if it was Africa the suitcase would be bigger!!! (If it is Africa, email me and I will give you some hints on what TO bring!

Patrice said...

Boston . . . I love that city in the fall. (Just like the pirates who don't do anything.)

Allyson said...

ooooo I'm intriged. Can't be Florida, Maybe Washington DC, maybe New York....wherever it is, I hope its fun!

linda crandall said...

I would guess...Navoo...but anywhere is great! I would love to go on a trip right now :)

Kassi Jane said...

i know how you feel! i love sleeping in my own bed! ....are you going to TEXAS?

Anonymous said...

Uganda. :) Hows that for a guess?

love the RED BAG!!! that is TOOO CUTE!!!!!

Anonymous said...

I'll guess NYC.

Jessica said...

Wow mom -I wonder if you are flying by way of NYC - then most of these people would be right! Sorta...

Spin said...

ok im guessing Bermuda but wherever it is GO and EnJOY!!

Allyson said...

okay already, spill the beans!