Simplicity is not in my nature. I have to work at it. Which seems counter intuitive for someone who is trying to live a more calm, balanced, simple life. But whatever, I don't wake up every morning with a calm mind and a gentle focus for my day. Oftentimes, I awaken with at least 147 things running through my head, some connected to my daily to-do list, some random thoughts about something I don't need to think about for another 13 months...some trying to rectify a past issue. Like I said, simplicity is not in my nature. I have to work at it.
Today I'm preparing for a trip. Which for me is anything but simple. And this one is a particular challenge because the girls and I are traveling without Dax. And we're flying, which the girls haven't done since before they turned 2. Oh, and did I mention that we're renting a car and driving over 7 hours to our final destination once we land. In my heart, I know I can handle it, but my head likes to mess with my heart a bit and today is no exception.
If it was not for the itchy need to aim for perfection and to try so hard to prepare for every possibility, I would be a lot less mentally consumed this morning. But being a long distance car-traveler. I'm used to being able to throw in last minute items, to pre-purchase snacks, and to bring a variety of just-in-case items with me on the trip. I really don't want to hassle with over packed suitcases and excessive supplies with me on this trip. But it's hard to put the girl scout in me to rest.
Take for instance the fact that I just spent 10 minutes contemplating whether or not I should take my yoga mat with me or plan or purchasing one once I arrived. It would be heavy and take up a great deal of space in the smallish suitcase I'm trying to stick with as I pack. Can I do yoga without my Chromebook? How will I access my classes? If I take my mat, I need to take my Chromebook. Which would be o.k...because I can write on my Chromebook. But then I need internet service for both of those functions and there really isn't a whole lot of service at my mom's house. So, is it worth it? Could I do my yoga without a mat and without an instructor? Could I write without my laptop? And what about the camera. Photography is supposed to be my hobby. I should really take my camera. But that will make my bag heavy, and then I'll feel obligated to drag it with me wherever I go. Could my phone camera be enough for this trip? Hmmmm...
You see the problem I'm having preparing for this trip. Simple and I are not often close companions.
But I don't want this trip to be about "stuff." I want it to be a bonding time for the girls and me. I want to spend time in a part of the country that feels like home. I want to visit places we've never been before and enjoy the time I have there. I want to eat good food and take in what's around me. What "stuff," do I need to accomplish these things? Stay tuned...
