A ripping adventure in the mountains of Mexico at Rancho La Puerta. Somehow there is always a “humorous moral to the story” when traveling with my relatives.

Every year my sister, Aunt, mother and I take a “sisters vacation”. Someone has to organize the trip; this job usually falls on my shoulders. I don’t mind being the travel agent; I can then unilaterally pick any spot that I like. However, a few us like to expend a bit more physical energy than others, and walking from art class to a spa activity does not count. With these thoughts in mind, I try to accommodate everyone.

My friend Michelle never and I mean never goes on a “girls vacation”. Her husband travels quite a bit and she cannot seem to find the time for herself. I personally do not have this problem. My husband travels too, he jaunts hither and there on various heli-ski trips, and lets not forget the snow cat trips. He never met a mountain that disagrees with him and his friends know he is packed for any upcoming adventure. Craig and I often take turns traveling due to the latest excesses of our three teenagers. We have a long suffering nanny who will put up with the kids if we wish to go away together. I have to say that the last time we returned from a trip, she looked a bit harried.

It started out as a simple idea: Why not go to Mexico for Christmas? No tree, no presents, no last minute stress of getting just the right thing for someone for the Holidays. Yes, this was a most excellent plan. My husband also liked the scheme; he is not so sure about all of my relatives attending, but is gracious about my stinking family. My sister, brother, cousin and their families love the plan. My parents initially elected to stay home, but later decide to attend, rather miffed that we would all desert them so readily for a warm climate.