Packing for a trip.

My husband, Joe and I are leaving for a vacation to Costa Rica tomorrow.  We are so ready for the sun and relaxation - getting away from it all.  But before we leave we have to pack and prepare.

It's much easier to pack now compared to the old days when my children were little.  I remember focusing so hard on their needs that I would forget to pack my essentials.  As they got older we created a check list and I turned their packing over to them. Underwear, check, socks, check, bathing suit, check. . . .  Although it's just the two of us now I still use a check list.

Art Supplies are always on my list to pack. I do have to admit that sometimes they stay in my suitcase because I'm too busy.  I always take a camera to capture images for future projects.  I also collect maps and other trinkets as I travel.  This trip I've decided that I'm going to schedule a 30 minute art break everyday. Yesterday I went to Michael's looking for a new sketchbook (all of mine were full!).  I was surprised by two things.  First of all the number of choices and secondly that they were having a 40% off sale on all sketchbooks and papers!  Time to stock up!  I settled on a nice one that is 7 x 10 with pages for mixed media.  I've filled a zip lock bag with pencils, markers, colored pencils, brushes, watercolors and watercolor crayons. It's so hard sticking to the just a few essentials!
 

Dasher sad that
we're leaving him.

Dasher happy at
"puppy camp."

We dropped Dasher at the dog sitter's house.  I found a great woman who watches a few dogs in her home. Great business idea, she gets to stay home with her child and earn a good income. Very creative thinking.  And my puppy doesn't have to spend the week in a cage.






Even if you're not planning a trip (or you've already been on yours) consider putting a bag of essential supplies together with a small notebook.  Keep it in your car or somewhere you can grab it for a spontaneous burst of creativity!  I used to doodle in my sketchbook for hours as I waited to pick up one of my sons.  Or better yet schedule that 30 minute creativity break.  It will refresh you!

Since I'm going on vacation I'm not sure how many posts I'll get out next week. But I can guarantee there will be lots of posts when I get back!