An Organized Vacation!

I am coming down from a vacation high. We just returned from a week-long vacation to see relatives up North and I find myself having a hard time getting back into the swing of things. As most people do I suppose. Have you ever noticed that a little preparation can go a long way when vacationing? Here are a few tips to help maximize the fun while you're away and minimize the stress when you return.

* Before leaving, throw out food that will go bad in the fridge (i.e., produce, milk, meats, etc.). This is also the perfect time to give the old fridge a nice rub down inside. When you return, you can head to the grocery store to restock.

* Clean the house. It's always nicer to come home to a clean house than a dirty one! Change the linens on the beds too. It will make falling into your own bed that much sweeter when you get home.

* Stop the mail and newspaper. Most of the time, you can stop both the mail and paper online. Have it start back up on the day you return so you can go through accumulated mail and newspapers.

* Hire neighbors/relatives to care for plants and pets while you're away. Dead plants are no fun for anybody.

* Turn off the water and unplug electronics to prevent any accidents while you're away.

* Print off your trip itinerary if flying. I always forget to do this and it drives me crazy!

* For email, turn on a vacation notice so people know you are out of the office and when to expect you back.

Isn't it funny how you spend months anxiously anticipating your vacation and then you can't wait to get home after it? Vacations are always fun, but there truly is no place like home! May all your vacations this summer be safe and memorable ones.

All the best,
Stephanie Marshall, Founder
In the Clear Organizing
www.intheclearorganizing.com