Home-bound for too long? We look at the Top 10 (plus one) Signs You Need a Vacation:
1. You set up your lounge chair—accessorized by a hand-held fan, reading material and water bottle—in your care recipient’s bedroom;
2. You form a line, just like they do at Disney World;
3. You become a tourist in your own home, asking for directions to the nearest bathroom;
4. You write postcards from your dining room table to your friends;
5. You wear flip flops that feature a large plastic flower on top of your big toe;
6. Your sun visor remains perched on your head all day long; your fanny pack, clipped to your waist;
7. Your sunglasses and sunscreen go on each morning, even though you never set foot out of the front (or back) door;
8. You regularly refer to a map, any map;
9. You ask your spouse for good restaurant suggestions—something that’s within walking distance of your hotel;
10. Your swimming goggles become your new every-day jewelry, dangling from around your neck;
11. (The “Plus One”) You photograph your care recipient throughout the day, encouraging smiles and “Cheese’s” during meals and “Jeopardy”; you click snapshots of your care recipient with the home health aide.
You know that you’re in need of a break, but you can’t help but think, How? When? We’ve got some quick fixes for you:
1. Go somewhere in your area you’ve never been, such as a park, nature preserve or museum;
2. Start planning a trip that you’ll take in the future;
3. Cook something different or unusual for dinner (even better–order in something unusual or different);
4. Do something special to end your day, such enjoy a cold drink outside while listening to your favorite music;
5. Visit your community’s local pool;
6. Take advantage of a nearby outdoor festival, even for a few hours;
7. Read a great book;
8. Watch a wonderful movie;
9. Write a letter to a good friend;
10. Daydream, traveling to a favorite destination.
Your vacation will come!
Tags: vacation
