What to Take, What NOT to Take

Today's been a lonnnngggg day.  I was up at 4:00 a.m. with Evan running a high fever.  So, off to the doctor this morning.  He has tonsillitis and Zachary has an ear infection.  At least they were both sick at the same time so they'll both be on antibiotics until we leave.  I guess that's a good thing, meaning that if they have to get sick it might as well be now.

On the sailing front, the crew is heading north via the Gulf Stream.  Above are Teresa, Jason, Trey, and Lew.  I'm guessing they are having a blast.  Yes, I'm a little jealous.  Ryan's having a blast with some of our closest, funnest friends and I'm home with sick, whiny children.  However, antibiotics work quickly and I have a sitter coming tomorrow so I can go to yoga and run some errands (and have a break from my lovely children), soooooooo tomorrow will definitely be better for me.

Since my day was a bit challenging, I allowed myself to start thinking about packing.  Only a mild panic set in.  What should I take?  The Wii?  My juicer?  If we left today I think I might NOT take one whiny child.  What toys should I take for the kids?  How about the enormous amount of stuffed animals they each sleep with?  Will I be able to find my special gluten free pancake mix (the ONLY one my kids will eat that's gluten free)?  I've got to start potty training Evan soon - so the little potty?  And what of the clothes, etc. for me?  We'll be stopping at various golf destinations so our clubs are onboard, so I'll need golf clothes, golf shoes (wish I had put those onboard already!).  Anyone that really knows me is aware of my extreme fondness for fabulous shoes.  Should I bring any fun shoes or just stick to flip flops?  What about purses?  I need yoga & Pilates clothes, running clothes, and belly dance clothes as well.  None of these are the same!  I plan to keep active this summer - I enjoy finding classes along our journey.  Then of course I need boat clothes, nicer clothes for museums and shopping, and swimsuits.  At least the kids' clothes are easy.  Storage isn't as big an issue on this boat since we have a lot of space on this boat, but I am loathe to junk up this boat like we did our last one.  I'm glad I still have 10 more days to figure this out.

On a really sweet & mushy note, Ryan sent me a sweet e-mail last night as he was about to get out of cell range.  Awwwwww.  He also sent me this self portrait, just in case I forgot what he looked like.

He doesn't look as happy as he should, does he?  Maybe he misses me?  Hang on honey, the kids and I will be there in 10 days!