Every time we’ve saved enough money to go on a trip, the planning begins and we create a nearly impossible-to-keep itinerary for the adventure. Andrée & I will quietly choose a few of the places to visit and the girls get to choose the bulk of the places because this adventure is about experiences for them. Margaret was online and saw a beautiful picture somewhere in the Austrian mountains – done. Sarah wanted to go to Germany – it’s a ten mile trip (we think) from Salzburg and the Sound of Music tour – done. Alison would like to ride bikes somewhere in Austria. Riding bikes? I’m in!

While going to bed before Andrée’s last day of school this week, Sarah (or maybe is was Alison or Margaret) commented how we needed to fill out some more stops along the way while we were on vacation. Of course, this led to a fitful night of sleep as Andrée tried to figure out ways to squeeze more things into our trip. When we woke up in the morning and Andrée shared the story, we decided that vacations were about relaxing. We have three nights planned at a UNESCo World Heritage site (Obertraun/Dachstein/Hallstat area), but wanted to let the rest of the trip play out without the stress of knowing we HAD to get somewhere. The girls once commented that everyone else they know goes and sits on a beach during their vacation and we’ll drive 4500 miles through the United States southwest and visit a new place each day.

This trip will be about relaxing ALONG with sightseeing. Our first big trip took place with a 14, 12, and 10 year old daughters. This time around, we’re traveling with two adults and a soon-to-be adult daughter that can actually have a glass of wine at dinner! My how times have changed.

Let the adventure begin – once we’re all done with school . . . .