Today I’m attempting to finish the bulk of our Houston trip packing. Tomorrow we pick up the rental car (and hope it’s big enough for all our stuff), drop off the dingo (Allie) and take a quick nap before hitting the road early Saturday. It’s amazing how much stuff a 14 lb. person needs. And in an attempt to save space for the return trip home, I’m packing for all three of us in a 21″ suitcase. For a week.

I’m not good at strategic packing, but I’m better than Chris (who will bring two suitcases just for himself if I don’t pack for him). I watch Rick Steves travel through Europe for months with nothing but a small duffle bag and I’m amazed. I’d need a duffle bag just for my shoes. So far I’m packing brown boots, black boots, black Oka B sandals, brown and pink Rocket Dog slip ons, oh.. and black dress shoes. And I need them all, really I do.

Making a packing list on tadalist.com has been helpful. I always know where the list is (unlike my lists scribbled on pieces of paper) and I can share the list with Chris so he can help. I’m a list person.

I am glad this is our last road trip for a while. At least until March when we head back to Tulsa for my brother in law’s wedding. Chris has mentioned flying next time. I’m just not ready for that. Too much stuff to coordinate through an airport. That would totally stress me out. I mean- baby, stroller, car seat and base, suitcases, diaper stuff, electronics- laptop, video camera, Nikon D50 & D200, tripod, lenses, etc…

The good thing about going to Houston is it’s a pretty easy drive, unlike Tulsa. They are almost the same distance away from us, but Tulsa always seems to take 1 or 2 more hours. I blame the state of Arkansas. And the BBQ in Memphis. That always slows us down. We usually don’t hit any consistent traffic on our way to Houston until we get north of New Orleans to maybe Baton Rouge. Mississippi is always a breeze.. that is unless there’s an ice storm and you get stuck 30 miles outside of Holly Springs and it takes you 8 fricking hours to get to Memphis. Been there, done that. Never again.

Anyway, posting will be sparse next week since we’ll be so busy with family.  With my brother and his family, and my sister and her new husband we’ll have a total of 11 staying at my mom’s.  Three little girls- a 3 year old, 1 year old, 4 month old.. and two dogs.  Lots of entertainment.

Hope everyone has a safe and happy holiday!