By Nancy Brewer
We planned a very brief time away on the Elizabeth River in Norfolk for some rest, relaxation, fishing, and to see “A Beautiful Noise”, the Neil Diamond musical at the Chrysler Theatre. I don’t recall if it was our children or whether we named our long weekend getaways “Mini Moons”, but we were about to experience another Mini Moon. After waiting for months, the play date had arrived. We had reservations at an Airbnb cottage and were assured it was supplied with everything we needed or desired, so packing would be very simple and easy. Yay!
First off, I know our children would confirm my desire to leave a clean house before leaving it; beds made, dishes cleaned, all clutter picked up, trash cans emptied, toilets scrubbed, plants watered etc. This was a ritual that had to be adhered to even on Sundays before leaving for church. I always wanted to be ready for unexpected company who might drop by after church and I was sure they would want to look in the bedrooms. After being married to Jim Brewer for many years, I would love to blame him for this quirkiness of mine, but truth be known, I was like this before marrying him. So, it must be some of my parents’ doings,
Well, Jim grabbed his fishing rods, bucket, net and all the necessary tackle he would need. He also packed his violin (we don’t go many places without this treasure) and then he threw in a bag of a few (very few) shorts and shirts. Since the cottage was so well equipped, I didn’t think we would need his favorite frying pan and knife, but what do I know? Jim loves to cook, and he packed eggs, bacon, sandwich makings, condiments, coffee, filters, wine cork, fruit, and assorted vegetables. I thought it might be nice to eat out as much as possible, but Jim said, “just in case”, so the cooler was pronounced full, and Jim was ready in about 15 minutes.
So, after making sure the house and yard were in order and hummingbird feeders refilled and bird baths cleaned, I began to pack my meager items. Now the cottage has a hair dryer, but I love mine, so I packed it. I sleep better with my own pillow and sometimes my back acts up, so the heating bag and ice pack needed to come along. The weather has turned cool, so I wanted to make sure I had my favorite big fluffy robe. Slacks, sweaters, several pairs of shoes and coordinating jewelry and all my makeup is a must. Shorts should the weather turn warm again. Sunscreen is important and often when I get too much sun, I like to have my Aloe vera cream which is great for sun burn. Oh, and my hat too. My suitcase is about to burst but I can’t forget nighties and slippers. Going to the Theatre means a different dress code, so better pack something nice. I like to read and play Sudoku, wanted to make sure I had those items. Let’s see, what else do I need? Wine, yes, wine. I packed several bottles because who knows, it might rain the entire time. I’m sure I’m forgetting something but I’m sure Norfolk has a Walmart.
Whew, now I’m ready – I think.
