Storm Before The Calm

I am getting ready for a MUCH needed vacation. Did I say MUCH, MUCH needed vacation. My life can be very hectic. My commute gets to be exhausting. It can feel like I never get enough time to relax. Taking care of a mentally ill son is draining. Housework, laundry, cooking, cleaning, all that other great stuff that comes with being a woman. Hear me ROAR!
Now if you are a thief and think you have just found an easy house to prey on, think again. I have 3 dogs, the meanest cat anyone will ever meet, my son, and a house sitter. So find yourself another house.
Normally, one of my favorite parts of vacation is anticipation. I love to write lists. Lists of things to do. Lists of things to buy. Lists of things to pack. I start packing early. I over pack. It is all part of my fun.
This is a vacation to the mountains. First we are staying in a fancy resort for a few days. We are suppose to have rooms with a mountain view. Upgraded for that. We are attending a family wedding. Then off to a house big enough to hold most of my husband's siblings and their families There will be at least 15 of us under one roof. I'm told it is a large roof. Crossed fingers that we all have enough space. It is a three night stay. Then we are taking a scenic route home to see some landmarks.
If you read my blog you probably know, I will be taking books with me on the trip. I know I am taking, Eat, Pray, Love. I want to be sitting outside, looking at the Rockies, reading the book. That is part of what the book is about - LIVING. Getting in touch with yourself. I will also take my e-reader. It has two books on it. Because I am an optimist, I know there will be at least another book with me on the trip. One day I am going to take a trip to somewhere beautiful and only read. This is not that trip. I know we will do hiking, sight seeing, scenic drives, more hiking, a visit to some natural hot springs (LOVE, Love, that idea). Since this is a trip with my husband's family, there will probably be cards and some games. Somewhere in all of that I want my reading time.
It is hard for me to be away from home very long. I worry about the house. I worry about how my son will handle our being gone. I have two wonderful nieces that are staying at our house. Because of them this vacation will give me the best opportunity to "get away from it all."
We do not leave for awhile. In the meantime, I will be enjoying myself with anticipation. Imagining what the vacation will be. Hope it meets at least half of my expectations! I am more than ready for a great trip!