I recently took a mini vacation up north to visit my daughter, and her family. They have a small ranch, and live in a very rural area. I love it up there because I can sit in the middle of nature, and talk to all the animals.

I usually fly when I’m traveling alone, as I did this time. But things are different these days. The airlines have changed policies, and it’s a bit stressful trying to figure out exactly what is required of you. After watching many Youtube videos on the airline’s “New Rules,” I still wasn’t any further along than when I started.

I just didn’t want to get to the gate, and be turned away because my case was too large, or I had something inside that was the tiniest bit larger than they required. I’ve had my luggage gone through before, had things taken out and tossed. Some of it was my fault, I should have known better. Other times they pulled something that wasn’t too large and tossed it. That one really got to me!

All in all, because it was my daughter, there were many things that I didn’t need to bring because it was already up there. Lucky for me, the cary on’s that are required are really small now, and one has to be a really efficient packer to be able to get away with a mini cary-on.

The next thing was for me to mark my luggage so it would be easily identified. After spending hours selecting a bag that was just the proper fit at TJ Max, I then had to decide what to put on the side so it could be recognized. That took another day or so. After all it had to be my signature look!

Finally, after trying many different things, this is what I decided on. It took me about three days due to drying time. I’m happy with it, and it didn’t get scrapped up even after being thrown around by the people that love throwing baggage around.

I stayed twelve days, and had a very relaxing visit. My Granddaughter turned eighteen the 4th of April, and I love seeing her on her birthday. She picked a dinner place for us all to enjoy, and just to top it off, she had a very excellent place for the three of us girls to go for lunch the following day. It’s never an inexpensive trip, but it’s always a memorable trip.

How do all of you find these little get aways, or even big vacations? Do you get stressed out, or are you a chill traveler? Is it more stressful unpacking when you get home? If you are traveling with family, do you end up being host? My husband joyfully play host, and hostess every time. After all, what is Grandpa, and Grandma for?

I love going, but it’s really nice to get back to the comfort of my own home. Never do I feel unwelcome, but I am aware of the fact that my family needs to make me feel comfortable. I always feel relief when I can get on the plane, allowing my daughter and her family to take a deep breath, and get back to normal.

Thank you for stopping by and allowing me to share my little adventure with you. Until next time, “United we stand,” Karen

These are just a few pictures of the ranch, there are many more, and many more animals to be seen…