The Simple Life at Home

• Have you arranged for someone to care for any pets or plants?
• Who is going to pick up your mail if you aren't having it held?
• Return any library materials that might be due while you are away
• Finish up and/or dispose of any perishable food
• Clean out the car if you are taking a road trip
• Charge any electronics you plan on using - iPods, portable DVD's, GameBoys, etc.
• Confirm any flights or hotel reservations

Packing

• Medicines and a first aid kit
• Maps, directions and tickets
• Cameras (and chargers! and extra memory sticks!)
• Extra glasses or contact lenses
• An extra set of keys (just in case!)
• Did you promise to bring something???
• Things to occupy time in the car or on the plane (books, stories on cd, small toys)

Just Before You Go

• Take out the trash and spray Lysol in the can
• Pour bleach in your toilet (if no pets drink from them!)
• Set lights on a timer
• Put fresh sheets on the bed - you'll be grateful when you come home!
• Hide any valuables
• Close curtains and blinds
• Unplug computer and other expensive, delicate electronics
• Unplug any unnecessary electrical devices
• Run the dishwasher (and put dishes away if you have time)
• Sweep the floor and wipe the counters
• Leave pet food and instructions in an obvious place for pet sitters
• Double check locks and alarm system (if you have one)

I know that these are all basic things, but sometimes in the rush of getting ready, small things get overlooked. It helps me to have a written list that I can look at and mentally check things off in my mind.

So, we will be back in mid-August, but I certainly hope to be posting updates of all of our adventures there. I'm hoping that we can see lots of interesting things while there - the Dead Sea, the ancient Roman town of Jerash, the Jordan River, the place from where history tells us Moses saw the Promised Land, one of the first early churches just recently discovered, and more. This year, the kids will be old enough to appreciate all of it!

Oh, and for those of you who are interested in the study on Creative Counterpart, by Linda Dillow, I think we will start at the beginning of September. That gives everyone a chance to enjoy their summer, finish up with current committments and get the kids back into school. If you are interested in joining us, drop me a line - we'd love to have you!

For more great ideas, be sure to visit Shannon and check out other Works For Me Wednesday ideas!!