This weekend, I’m doing something I haven’t done in at least 10 years.  I’m going on vacation.  Sure, it’s only a three day weekend, but for the next three days, I will have virtually no responsibilities or obligations other than resting and relaxing.  The only exception is that I do plan on writing a little each night, but to me that is relaxing, so I don’t consider that a violation of any vacation rules or etiquette.  I’ll be in the mountains, far away from the farm and without a phone signal.  If you try to reach me, don’t be surprised if you don’t get a response until late Monday or early Tuesday.

Ten years is a long time to go without a vacation.  Sure, I’ve had trips to conventions and with the boys, but I don’t count those as vacations.  For one, when I’m at a convention, I’m working, usually pretty hard, and even though I enjoy that, it’s still work.  When I’m with the boys, even when we’ve traveled somewhere cool and fun, I’m so busy chasing after and playing with them that I’m not resting or relaxing.  This weekend, I plan to put my feet up and unwind a little.  On Tuesday, I’ll return to the farm and hit it pretty hard again, but until then, I’m taking it easy.

The more I think about it, the more I need this trip.  I’ve worked damned hard for the last decade and have not taken nearly enough time simply to enjoy myself.  I hope to hear some live music, go fishing, hike a little, and maybe even swim.  Other than that, I have no plans or expectations.  I’m simply going to be still and exist for a bit.  I need this, and I’ve earned it.  It’ll be hard not to think about book sales and promotions, and I’ll probably have to resist the urge to check on everything, but I need a break.  So for the next three days, don’t expect anything from me because I’ll be hidden away in the mountains.

Hope everyone has a great Memorial Day weekend.