What is it about the seventy-plus generation and packing for a trip? How many suitcases full of bathing suits and light summer wear does one need for a month.

Children are quick.

Joe, the money-manager says, “The number one non-necessity item that people are cutting back on in these economic hard times . . . vacations.” sigh. But hey, let’s look on the bright side . . .Who needs a respite from the stress of the current gloom and doom financial forecast when relief is right here in our own backyard?

So, I’m heading out for a much-needed warm winter break, which requires purchasing a few things, namely shorts. Shorts that cover the danger zone otherwise know as U.U.P. (upper lumpy leg.)

Our first destination was Fill in reserve, next we stopped for two days at Sasaab which was a small open air hotel. Our final stay was Meru National Park, we skipped the Masai Mara due to strife in Nairobi.

This past month in Sun Valley, Idaho, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir performed at the new Sun Valley outdoor pavilion to a full house.

Passing the time with no television, no cell phone, no radio, just my husband and I with our two college-age sons and fourteen-year old daughter . . . and their two lively teenage girl cousins and their father. Eight total, 5 teenagers and 3 adult’s; the odds are not with us. This Christmas finds us in Kenya with the Bill Winters Safari group.

Andrew, my oldest son is going to college. Most of the time I am so happy for him, but where does this leave me? He was an extra appendage on my leg until the age of eight, not that I minded dragging his little body around. To this day, he stoutly denies ever holding fast to my pant leg.

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.