Come January when I long to be where it's warm and sunny I pull out the "actual use" guide from the previous year and start making lists. Granted, these lists get lost and rewritten numerous times in the intervening months, but it makes me feel like I'm doing something to speed the process.
I check the clearance endcaps at Target, scan the aisles of Big Lots, and compare prices at Sam's always looking for good deals and fun activities for the beach. I pack and re-pack my stockpiles to make the most efficient use of space.
It's been fun to pull out the supply lists from the first family vacation, five years ago when there was only one grandchild and two on the way. We're up to six grandkids now, and the quantity of food required to feed the hungry multitudes has increased tremendously. Staple meals have stayed the same while others have been added, changed, or completely disappeared.Last year our family made a "paper chain" of sorts with starfish to count down the days until departure. Recognizing that I could not once again live through the frantic antics of excited children, I opted for checking out some books about the beach from our local library. It's been a low-key way to prepare for the sun and sand.
As for me, I count down by spreading out the tasks. Last week we vacuumed the stray pretzels and Cheerios out of the van, played musical chairs with the three carseats, and packed towels. Yesterday I packed sheets and did 5 loads of laundry so I can pack the boys' clothes today. Tonight I'll make a solo run to Wal-mart for assorted supplies. Wednesday will be a trip to the library to return the aforementioned books and pick up books on cd to listen to on the road. With dental appointments on Thursday for the big boys, we will end the week with Frenzied Friday.
We'll do need to throw in a lesson about the names of the cousins that will be there.
I wish we were getting ready to go the beach...Have a great time!
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