Traveling Tips

My husband’s work involves a lot of traveling every alternative week for about a week at a time to the friendly city, Port Elizabeth. Both our boys have already spread their wings and this is our first empty nest year. The FM/CFS and safety considerations do not allow me to stay home alone for such a long time; so I usually accompany him.

My mom, brother, sister-in-law, my precious little niece as well as our two boys stay in PE ; so, I consider it a blessing to be able to visit them so often. I have one big problem though; travelling has never been kind to my Fibro! It has often sent me straight into the arms of a nasty flare and to bed for a few days. Now I plan carefully and that allows me to function better and to spent more quality time with my dear family.

After many trails and errors I am able to share what really worked for me.

1. Three days before departure   :  Rest, rest and rest! I only do the necessary household chores and pace myself . I get better and better at this pacing thing? At long last! This is a proven energy saver for many sufferes.

2.   On the road  :  We always stop for a brunch break at a beautiful country craft shop and restaurant . We are already good friends with the owners. This is also stretching time to loosen those cramped muscle and visiting the restroom.

3.   Accommodation   :  During each visit we try to stay at only one family member’s house and rather take turns in doing them the honors! This eliminates unnecessary packing and unpacking; a terrible energy consumer. I have to mention that packing is NOT one of my favorite activities!

4.   Daytime rest.  :  I make an afternoon rest for about an hour a priority. I usually lie down and use this time for sweet communion with our Lord. That enables me to spent more quality time with my loved ones in the evenings.

5.   Domestic chores.  :  I offer to do the less strenuous chores; cooking instead of cleaning house. I enjoy treating my family to a home cooked meal in the evenings. I so enjoy playing  with my niece and that gives her parents time to do their own thing. As far as I am concerned, she has been a little angel in our Pappa’s heart before her birth.

6. Laundry.  : I try to keep up to date with the laundry as much as possible to avoid being overwhelmed by an enormous load once back home.

7.  Honesty.  :  I am honest and open towards my family members about the limitations this illness puts on me. If I need time out, they understand and are so supportive when I need to stay in bed for an afternoon perhaps.

8.   Abiding in Jesus.  :  Our Lord promised to always sustain us with His love and grace, but we need to stay in Him. I have asked Him to teach me how to do that and have found that He loves doing so!

I am convinced that these suggestions can be helpful during holiday times as well.

Happy and save traveling.

Blessings

Mia