by Melissa Brunner

It seems to me that vacation comes in several forms. Of course, there's the vacation itself. But then there's also the vacation from the vacation preparation, and the vacation from vacation!

Right now, I'm in need of the break from preps. I'm about to take off with our latest Holiday Vacations group - and I have a list a mile long that needs to be completed before I leave. Trouble is, half that list is written down - the rest is in my head....and it keeps floating in and out!

One other obstacle I must overcome - I cannot pack until the last minute. Oh, I gradually set out piles of the clothing and other items I plan to take, but I cannot put out a suitcase until the last possible moment because if freaks out the dog and cats!

What's your best vacation preparation advice?