planning mode
dating scene
Now that the weather is in a much more cooperative mood but still off season, many of us are really itching to get out of the house and just do something, anything, to just shake the chill off! But, that nasty little aspect of Life always seems to get involved: you know the one – the one that mandates we show up for work on time, worry about feeding the kids and tending to the spring landscaping. Well, the way I see it, we are supposed to be working to live, and not the other way around, and a couple evenings away from home is not going to hurt anything. And if your better half is the one who usually handles all of the planning, even little things like calling in the pizza order, then there is no better way to reward yourself and your Event Coordinator than to drop what you're doing and, as my dad liked to put it, "go blow the stink off ya!"
Of all the romantic things I could ever possibly dream of, nothing beats being whisked away on a whim for a romantic weekend getaway, with all the planning taken care of for me, with a laid back itinerary that actually focuses more on us just being together. Is this a fantasy that could quite possibly become a reality, or is it something that only seems to happen in the movies (or to friends, of friends, of friends)? Does it have to cost a fortune? And, probably most importantly, is this something either half can put together, including the one who doesn't order pizza over the phone all that well?
Here's a list of what you need to do to take such a lofty dream make it a reality:
Is this the right weekend? Nothing will ruin your plans more than picking a weekend where your partner really has something important to do. You could even hint throughout the week that you just want to "keep it mellow" on that weekend. Just be sure whatever plans you do make can be easily broken, in case something truly important does factor in.
How much can you afford to spend? Before you even think of where to go, you need to plan on the budget. Even if all you have is $100 to splurge on yourselves, you can definitely do this! I always get fantastic hotel deals online, and camping at state parks can go for as little as $8!!! Don't be shy about asking friends to use their vacation homes or RV's, too!
How far from home do you need to go? Since this is probably Friday to Sunday night tops, time is a factor, so booking a flight would really cut into your together time and add a bunch of unnecessary frustration. Plan on spending no more than four hours on the road, and don't forget to include the average rush hour delays. Not longer than two hours into your drive is when you two should stop to eat dinner, so be sure to choose a midway location.
What destination would make your partner's heart truly sing? Of course, you have to have a vested interest here, but this is really more for your sweetheart's benefit. Does she like antiquing? Does he like race car meets? How about a music festival? Just be sure whatever entertainment you choose does not become the main event!
What about everyone left at home? Call Mom or another trusted relative or friend to sit at your house for the weekend. She or he can watch the kids, feed the cat and water the plants while you two are away. Offer a future favor in lieu of payment, so you don't cut into your budget. Just be sure to tell whoever it is to keep it all a secret! Shhhhh!
What are you supposed to bring? Think of what his or her normal bathroom routine is and grab everything that's normally used, along with two full changes of clothes (think favorites here!). Be sure your partner leaves for work first so you can pack for the both of you and tuck it all away. Leave from work early so you can pick up and leave, straight from work if you can! Just be sure to give him or her a call first, stating you wanted to go out for dinner.
