Those of us who live away from our families will understand that the most time we spend on planes is unfortunately not off to a destination like a tropical island or a theme park. Most of our trips are off to see our loved ones, and though this is exciting, it’s when I’m packing that I wish the bathers could fit in and that I would have a need for them!
Anyway, this trip we’re off to the Hunter Valley. From where we are, based in Melbourne, it’s only a short 1 ½ hours in the air. One difference for me this time is its the first time the three kids and myself are heading off on our own, Dad free. Our kids are now 4, 3 and 1, so things are fairly easy (compared to 12 months ago). But I’m still dreading the possibility of sleepless nights and unsettled souls leading to a tired mum. Oh well, it’s the price to pay for getting away.
One week out, I’m making my list and checking it twice. I’ve bought extra nappies, pre-packaged snacks (normally I’m a ‘I bake it you eat it’ sort of girl). I’ve bought everybody new toothbrushes (so I can pack them early), organised hairdressers, checked ahead for the weather (we won’t need our coats – hooray), have organised car seats for the drive at the other end, cancelled fruit delivery…can’t think of anything else!