It's the Little Things

Although these vacation homes really seem to have it all, it's really important to remember a few things that will make vacation so much more enjoyable and easy.

First things first, for all of our gourmet cooks. The brochure that promises a "gourmet" kitchen is about as gourmet as hotdogs and french fries. Last year my attempt at creating a traditional Thanksgiving Dinner during vacation was almost thwarted because of the lack of cooking utensils and pans. The lesson? Pick up or bring from home those cooking items you just can't live without.

Another fact of life: iPods are one of the greatest inventions of our time. Bring your own so you're not stuck listening to what someone else thinks is "cutting-edge country" or "the most influential emo band of our time". If you need to ask about that last part you should definetely bring your own earphones too.

Finally, if we've learned nothing from our vacations, we should always remember that vaseline is important for sun-burned lips, wind-burned cheeks, or just about anywhere if you ask Aunt Tesha. However, communal vaseline is never a good idea: please, PleASe, PLEASE bring your own container...again, just ask Tesha, she learned the hard way.