Health & Fitness
Pack it Up
My mother died when I was 29. I hope my blog is an inspiration to keep those we love, including loved ones we've lost, alive in both our activities and general spirit!
Packing is one of the travel necessities that can be so daunting I might choose to avoid it and stay home! While sharing personal stories about who packs the children for summer camp or family vacations, two of us (controlling) mothers admitted to usurping this task. We have no qualms over feeling more capable of ensuring that our children have enough clothing, toiletries, etc. and that luggage space is maximized. I gloated that I know how to fill each corner of the luggage by rolling shirts and socks to fit into each nook and cranny.
The conversation led me to ask, “Who taught you how to pack or did you just figure it out?” And, of course, we each had the same answer—“MY MOTHER.” I remember my mother’s pride as she folded, rolled and secured each item into the most efficient spot. As she maximized space, she also minimized creases and wrinkles.
As your children prepare for summer camp, vacations or even college, do you pack with them? For them? Do you do a final check to make sure nothing is left behind? Who influenced your packing? Did your mother have certain rules or methods? Which is more important to you (and which would your mother choose), maximizing space or minimizing wrinkles? If we control the packing too much, are we shirking our responsibility to pass along the packing protocol?
