California here I come! I'm off to Long Beach tomorrow for the CHEA homeschool convention. This will be the very first time I've ever set foot in the state of California.
I have mixed emotions. On the one hand I like traveling and meeting new people and promoting my curriculum. However, this trip is longer than usual and involves a big time zone difference and jet lag.
And then there is the issue of leaving my family. Granted, they are all parcelled out between work, church, parties, and friends so they won't exactly be bored. The fridge and pantry are stocked with easy meals like hot dogs and pizza. Everyone is on the mend from being sick this week. Still, I will miss them TERRIBLY! Saying goodbye to them is one of the hardest things I have to do!
So, I've decided to start a tradition. We're a huggy, touchy family and one of the hardest parts of being apart is missing all those hugs and kisses. Well, I have a surprise in store for them. Yesterday I bought 
The kids each have a little gift bag with one hug and one kiss for every day I'm gone plus an extra of each in case I have delayed flights or anything on the way home.
Hubby gets this special bag.
I'm sure some chocolates might find their way into my suitcase too, completely by accident of course.
And everybody gets an individual love note from Mom.
This is our new family tradition for when I go on trips. Shhh! Don't tell! They won't find out until tomorrow after I'm gone.
As for you, my bloggy friends, please continue to stop by my blog. When I go to conferences I leave my laptop behind because I like to have a little unplugged time. Plus, I have very little free time at conferences and when I do I like to do really cool stuff like eat and sleep. But I have pre-scheduled some posts that should appear in my absence so stop by and comment. Did I mention that I really like comments?
And when I get back I've marked two full days on my calendar to do absolutely nothing! I'm not cooking, cleaning, running errands, or lifting a finger. Trust me, I'll need the rest. During those two days I'm eating, sleeping, lounging, spending time with family, and catching up on blog reading. So you can bet I'll be visiting your blog and catching up!
I'll be thinking of you. Please be praying for me. And if you happen to attend the CHEA conference stop by the Teach4Mastery booth and chat a while. As Arnold says, "I'll be back!"
8 comments:
I hope you have a wonderful and safe trip!
I admire you for homeschooling. I am quite sure that my patience level would be around a negative 2 if I tried.
Have a great trip!! I'm vacationing next week. My laptop will be joining me.
Do the rest of us get caramel kisses? We'll miss you too! :-)
You're in my prayers! California is a fun place to visit.
You are such a great mom and wife, to leave the special little gift bags with notes and chocolates. :)
Bonita... I pray you have a nice safe trip. I think that is the sweetest idea for your loved ones. I try to do a little something when I leave home... They always feel so special. Take care and we will be here waiting on your return... Susie h~
Hi Bonita, I'm enjoying visiting your blog. Thanks for coming and visiting me at Knitting Kat. I hope you come by again. Hope you have a successful trip filled with blessings! I can't imagine how hard it must be to leave your family temporarily..but it sounds like you are leaving them with lots of love behind!
I'll send up some prayers Bonita. Try to enjoy yourself, and who knows, you may even run into Arnold!
I know its hard to leave the kids, but having done it once now, I think it is growing for them and hubby to muddle through without mom. I think this is the time, when mom is away, that they rise up and call her blessed!
Have fun Bonita!
Will be praying for you and I love this idea. I don't travel a lot, but if I ever do I'm just going to have to copy you. :)
Blessings,
Lelia
Bonita,
Hope your trip is fabulous! I know it's hard leaving your family behind, but I'm sure you will be extremely busy at the cirriculum fair! Hope it's a great success! I'll be praying for you! :)
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