It’s summer, and our family, like many, is making plans to go somewhere ... anywhere ... on a vacation ... or to visit children or grandchildren; to experience a departure from the norm. After all, we have been in “cages” these past many months. It’s time to open the doors; even three days away will do us all wonders!
The airline ritual has changed. It’s true that the restrictions are still there, masks need to be worn and nose holes need to be covered up at all times. Fred got reprimanded for showing his nose holes. My, how the definition for “flashing” has changed.
The airports are functioning more normal again. And, although waiting in line to board requires social distancing and masks, once you get on the plane, everyone sits packed in like sardines. (How does that work?) Remember, each traveler feels like you do. But don’t let airline travel discourage you from flying.
Myrtle, who is now a widow, has an opportunity to fly to Washington D.C., this summer to visit family. She fears traveling since losing her mate plus all the COVID changes. However, she is strong, and knows she must overcome her fears, but it won’t be easy to take that first trip alone. If you identify, don’t let anything hold you back. Life is short. Go live it!
Renting a car is expensive, unless you have a pile of money stashed away. The rental car business hit a nosedive during the COVID months, and the industry sold many of the vehicles. Most of us have cars, but on the east coast, many don’t. They are in for a shock.
Some are planning “stay-cations” at home; picnics, relaxation, watching movies, grilling, ball games, etc. Or they are considering touring to scenic places in the state. Consider renting a cabin at one of the many Kansas lakes, visiting Castle Rock and Monument Rocks in Oakley and Quinter, or checking out the “Little Jerusalem” Niobrara Chalk formation between Scott City and Oakley.
It can be tough navigating all the responsibilities to get away ... at our house, the dog is now a new factor in the equation. Piper roams when we disappear for a long period of time, so we can’t just ask someone to feed her each day. She is a very social dog. If we leave for long, she skedaddles for other neighborhoods to find someone to pet her belly. We must board her.
Fred’s garden needs a “caretaker” to water and pick while we are gone, if it’s producing. Fred is a frustrated farmer and he loves to plant. The many hanging or potted plants around the place must be watered often as well. We enlist our daughter.
How many home responsibilities do you need to consider in order to leave? It can seem like it’s not worth it, but you must make the effort to go. “A vacation is what you take when you can no longer take what you’ve been taking.” (Earl Wilson)
What about your pet cat? Can you consider bringing kitty along with you? If we took our dog, she would take up half of the back seat plus all the other complications of motels, etc. And while traveling in the car, we would eventually smell like dog!
Perhaps you know a neighbor’s kid who would help by feeding your cat? Oh, she is a house cat, right? Consider hiring a house-sitter who can care for everything on the property. Fred’s sister in Denver goes the “house-sitter” route. But, on the other hand, the kitty might be better off being with you.
However it works for you, make “getting away” a priority. On vacation one totally unplugs. Getting ready is half the fun to “get out of Dodge.” And when your travel is over, home looks very appealing. That’s the purpose of getting away, after all. It’s renewal we are looking for.
“In matters of healing the body or the mind, vacation is a true genius.” (Mehmet Murat Ildan)
Judi Tabler lives in Pawnee County and is a guest columnist for the Great Bend Tribune. She can be reached at juditabler@gmail.com.
