...to take me away.

I have short timers syndrome. I am mere moments from some time away. I am leaving and I couldn't be more excited. I'm looking forward to different weather. A 7,000 foot change in elevation should provide some. I love living in the tropics, but getting away will be great.

We're going to a place that we have never been. I won't say where, we're keeping the whole trip a secret from the kids. I'm trying to pull off an Amazing Race Christmas Vacation. I've got clues formulating. I've found several places to visit, something of interest to all of the kids. My daughter is a photographer, this trip should provide us an abundance of pictures.

I've learned so much in planning this trip:
1: Check www.farecompare.com they give you a historical record of the past two years of airline prices. Following their trending saved us $800 on airline tickets.

2: Not all family suites are created equal. Embassy Suites provides a two room suite, but both beds are in the same room. Missing the point a little. I was looking forward to their omelet bar, but we are staying at the Residence Inn. We get a two bedroom suite. That's two bedrooms, not two beds in a room, plus free breakfast and fully equipped kitchen.

3. Research the weather. I'm used to 80 degrees in November, that's at sea level, we're trekking up more than a mile. I don't think it's convertible weather.

I'm hoping that the lack of forethought on the part of the kids will eliminate some of the baggage. Do we really need to bring three bags per person for a five day trip?