"Wow...a blog...really?"
All I could think (I wouldn't dare say) when Lindsey dropped the actual R&R Real Perspective blog bomb on me. For the better part of two decades we've talked about creative possibilities, and this is the one she decided to move on! Not only did SHE actually start this blog, but she created the "His Perspective" tab and essentially assigned ME homework. Lindsey really doesn't ask for much, so since she's hinted twice about posting, I figure it's honestly the least I could do. This exact moment (while she's doing dishes and cooking dinner) seems like the perfect time to get after it...and get out of that. All I wanted was a couple of billboards to make people laugh!
Traveling with my three ladies is very important to me as a husband and father. The laughing, the playing, the crying, the games, the memories, the constant barrage of potty breaks. Being prepared for all the obstacles is nearly impossible when no one can make up their own mind, let alone all of them agree!
"I want McDonald's!"
"I need Starbucks!"
"Where do babies come from?"
I mean I can accommodate the first two easily enough, but how's a guy supposed to be ready for that third one while driving down the interstate at 85 mph? Truth is, no Dad is ever going to be able to answer that third question! EVER! The best advice I can pass along for a successful trip is to be prepared. My personal insights from our trials and tribulations will hopefully provide at least one shred of hope for you husbands and fathers embarking on a family vacation or romantic getaway...trust me, it's difficult to experience both of these at the same time.
- "Fancy" Coffee first stop of the day is a must - I liken waking a hibernating bear to Lindsey waking up in the morning (everyday, not just vacation). Through the years of traveling together I've learned that searching out a Starbucks or local coffee shop for a Skinny Vanilla Latte helps kick-start Lindsey's morning and get everyone on the right track. Inevitably it will bring a smile to Lindsey's face, and allow the rest of us the opportunity to get comfortable while she's distracted. Coffee may not be cure-all for your situation, but finding that perfect start for your significant other to each day is a necessity.
The smile (with coffee in hand):
Which begins each vacation day:
- Breakfast is the most important meal of the day...for me - Once Lindsey's coffee is in hand, it is time for me to get my start. Similar to beginning each day off right for her, it's as necessary for me to get my fuel. For me, it's breakfast...eggs and bacon. The early hours of the day are often jam-packed with events and activities. Make sure you start your day off right as well! It will help you prepare for the challenges which lie ahead.
- Google Maps - Use whichever navigation app you fancy, just make sure you are fluent with the one you choose. Your travel partner (or just you if you're solo) will put complete faith in YOU to get to the destination. Navigation apps provide the traveler a powerful tool to find hotels, restaurants, convenient stores, points of interest, etc.
- Snacks - Notice in the 2nd picture above, Lindsey has food stashed away in her purse? That's not odd, it's preparedness! Whether you're driving, flying, boating - having snacks at the ready can turn a little monster into a little singing fairy...or a hangry wife into the sweet lady you fell in love with. Always have access to some type of food. Anything is better than nothing!
- Always offer to stop - If we are in the car, I offer to stop every 15 minutes to make sure we never have an emergency. No one ever needs to use the facilities at the same time, so offering on the regular keeps the spare undies at bay.
- Pack light - Whether it's the aforementioned romantic getaway or the family vacation, you're going to be hauling a lot of "stuff" in and out, through an airport, into the car, etc. Pack light for yourself, and just bring the essentials. It will save you from getting upset in Terminal C on your way to Terminal A on a short layover. Always pack chargers...lots and lots of chargers! *Another trick - I keep my toiletry bag packed 24/7. Everything I use daily I just place in the bag in the drawer...an easy way to make sure I remember everything I use daily for the trip.
- The Hotel - Choose something appropriate for the occasion, you're going to spend more time there than you plan. If you're torn between two places, choose the one with the nicer bathroom. When we travel with our girls, we review all the pools. Regardless of what excursions or attractions you have planned, kids love the pools. Pick a good one.
- There's an App for that - Seriously, get the app. There's an app for everything. I travel A TON for work, and I've got multiple hotel, flight, dinner reservation, travel review apps on my phone. If I'm taking my wife out for an anniversary dinner, a client to an appreciation dinner, or a fun-themed family dinner, I can read what people have to say and book a reservation without leaving my desk. I haven't spoken to a front desk manager at a Hilton in almost two years. The Hilton app allows you to use your phone as the room key and check-in before arrival, as well as choose your room. No more lines, or terrible room views. Pick whatever you want.
- Uber - Uber is more than just an app. It deserves it's own call-out. Uber is the single most convenient travel tool I use. You can request the uber-fancy Uber Black to impress or an Uber-XL for the family. Uber drivers take pride in making your journey "together" whatever you want. Ranging from the "forgettable" ride on those nights you just want to share conversations with your partner to some of the best DJ'ing, sing along rides you could ask for. While in Puerto Rico on a work trip, I was lucky enough to get several free Spanish lessons from my drivers! Whatever you want, they oblige and they always have phone chargers which is always welcomed.
I began this "homework assignment" to get out of household duties, but found myself really pondering what makes our trips so special. Honestly, it's all about the moments and the people you share them with. Make every trip a special one and find joy in the small things. Being prepared is only setting you up to fully enjoy what life is about...the Journey.
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