As you are reading this, I am returning from a three-day business trip.
Jealous?
I once had a boss who would get upset when we called our business trips “vacations.” She didn’t have kids, and therefore didn’t understand how traveling without a screaming toddler, a husband who has to be on Xanax to fly and having a hotel room all to myself (and my iBooks) could be considered a “vacation.”
Writing this, the day before I leave for my VACATION, here is what I’m most looking forward to:
- Reading. I started a book two months ago and it’s been sitting in my car for the last month. I’ve carried it with me to doctor’s appointments and baseball games hoping to squeeze in a few pages, without any luck. I need to finish that and I’ve already downloaded another book from iBooks and a few “samples” of other books.
- Sleeping in a dark and quiet room – just the way I like it. No TV, baby monitor or fans. Just me and the (imaginably) very comfy bed.
- Having time to work out. I know it seems ridiculous to want to work out on my vacation, but really, my workout clothes have been sitting at my desk for a month just in case I find time to run down to the work gym. This item would be even better if I can be on the treadmill AND read a book.
- Watching what I want on TV. I love to watch TV – it’s one of my guiltiest pleasures. Though, this is much more appealing when traveling in the fall when all the TV shows are new. But, if I want to watch TV, I will. Because I can.
- Trying new restaurants in a different city is probably one of my most favorite things. It’s even better when you don’t have to pay for it. And when I don’t have to cut up someone else’s food, escort anyone to the restroom (and wipe for them) or plea with anyone to sit still for five more bleeping minutes while I finish my meal.
I’m traveling with a co-worker (and mom) who is already upset we are having working lunches. Great minds think alike.
I received an email where the attendees were talking about the nightlife and what options we had. Listen, people, if the “nightlife” you’re referring to includes anything besides my bed and my iPad, then you can count me out. I will go out to dinner and have a couple drinks, but after that, you can find me in my quiet hotel room.
Actually, just don’t come looking for me until morning, when I have showered and gotten ready in peace and am ready for breakfast. Even then, come look for me only if you know where to find the closest Starbucks.
Melissa Cruickshank is married with a daughter. She works full-time.
