blue artichoke

I think I've got the hang of vacationing in my own home, but sleeping in the guest room isn't quite as exciting as, say, spring break in Cancun. Yes, I'm actually spending spring break in Cancun. You'll be able to see me on the lesser-known "Family Vacations Gone Wild" videos. My mom and I are heading south of the border tomorrow, to be joined on Friday by Gentleman Caller and later by my brother and his girlfriend.

I used to be a great suitcase packer. I made a list and very rarely forgot things. Somehow, my packing technique has devolved over the years to a slightly less-efficient system. I get out my suitcase a few days in advance and start throwing things I think I might want to take into (or at least near) the suitcase. Then I spend several hours second-guessing my choices and take things out of the suitcase. Finally, I get so lazy that I zip up the suitcase and go. Upon arrival, it's anyone's guess what's in my suitcase. I went to Norway during the summer with no short sleeves packed, but a set of long underwear for when I went above the Artic Circle (which, incidentally, doesn't feel so arctic in the summer). I went to Poland with very few shirts and, because it was cold, ended up wearing all of them each day and rotating which one was on top. I've gotten more organized in every other aspect of my life, but packing is where I throw caution to the wind and make do with whatever I end up with. I know I've packed two bathing suits, sunscreen and some flip-flops. What more could I need?