Its that time of the year when our thoughts drift to the warmth of the summer and relaxing on the beach or in the mountains. Its a time of year to forget about work and enjoy the time we spend with family and friends. But we all know about the pre-vacation and post-vacation blues. Its the time before vacation when we have to make sure all the important items are taken care of at work during our absence, make sure someone is taking care of our plants and animals, pack, confirm reservations, and a million more little irritating items that enable us to enjoy our week away. Then after what seems like a longer trip back home, we come back to more stuff piled on our desk, unpacking, doing the laundry, and another million more little irritating items because we had an enjoyable week away.

Sometimes you wonder if its worth it. Sure it is! But whats the best way to go on a relaxing vacation and have less pre and post vacation stress? Its as easy as

ABO Always Be Organized! Planning ahead can help you enjoy the time away so that you can deal with the stress of returning.

If you have a regular place you vacation, make your reservations in January (Its also nice to think about your vacation during the cold, dark days of winter!). If you choose a different place each year, schedule a family get together for the second week of January each year to plan where you want to go. During the winter months there is always a listing of places to visit in the Sunday paper. Add some pizza and this can be an enjoyable family activity! Savings note: If you plan to fly and want the cheapest rate, check for a flight after midnight in the time zone where the airline is based thats when most tickets that have been reserved but not paid for are returned to computer reservation systems. Also, fare wars usually occur mid-week, weekend rates tend to be higher.

As you get closer to vacation time, make a to do list for the office and for home. On the home front, assign each family member a responsibility if possible. Remember to keep leftovers to a minimum so food isnt wasted while you are gone if no one is staying in your home. Have a list for the kind relative or neighbor who will care for your pets, plants, or is just keeping an eye on the house while youre gone. This should include not only important instructions, but also the phone number to your vacation getaway and a local emergency contact. Its always a wise idea to consider utilizing a timing device for the lights to go on automatically and put a hold on the newspaper and mail so that it is not obvious the family is away. If you have someone staying in your home while you are away, make sure you stock some of their favorite foods, or cook ahead and freeze some homemade meals for them. Its an easy way to show your appreciation for their time and effort!

At the office, review what appointments you have scheduled and try to keep your calendar free one day prior to your vacation and one day after you return. This will give you time to finish up the loose ends and then ease back into your duties upon return. It also is a valuable time to clean up the email and delegate duties that others can handle.

I keep a packing list on the computer and adjust it to the vacation (i.e bathing suits for the beach and sweaters for the mountains). If you have room, lay out the suitcases two weeks prior to your vacation and as you wash and iron clothes, begin packing them, checking off the list as you go. The day of your departure all you have to do is pack those last minute items! Remember if you have young children and will be on the road for an extended time, take items to keep them occupied. Also pack a few snacks so that stops along the road will be minimized (and as my mother always said, Make sure you go to the bathroom before we leave!).

If possible, try to schedule your times of departure and return when traffic will be lighter. This certainly will lessen the stress of your drive. If you cant avoid traveling when traffic is heavy, or run into an unexpected delay remind yourself that it is out of your control and make the best of the situation after all it is your vacation! ENJOY!