Calgon, Take Me Away!

I need a vacation. I've noticed that work is starting to take a toll on me physically, mentally and emotionally, so I've decided to plan some time off. My last few vacations (London in 2005, South Padre Island in 2006) were rather active, sightseeing-focused trips. This year, I want something more relaxing.

As I was contemplating my options, I couldn't help but think of the vacations my family used to take. We'd rent a secluded cabin in the woods in Maine, and spend the week swimming in the crystal-clear lake, playing board games and cards, reading and relaxing, all without the distraction of a television, telephone or computer. I keep a picture on my desk of the view of the lake from the cabin's porch, so I can mentally escape there anytime I want.

I've decided that's where I'll go this year. Sadly, the cabin from my childhood no longer stands. My parents went to Maine several years ago and found that it had been demolished to make room for a hideous modern home. But I've done some research online and found many other secluded, beautiful cabins on the same lake that are available for rent.

So that's where I'm heading. Come September (the earliest I can take time off from work, not to mention a much more affordable time to rent a cabin), Ernie and I will spend a week in Maine. It's several months away, but knowing what's in store will make the coming months more bearable. I hope.