I am about to take a 12 hour car trip with my two kiddos. Traveling with children is hard no matter how old they are, and unfortunately, in today’s economy, more and more people are hitting the roads as a way to save money. I am traveling to visit my sister just 2 states over, but I’m sure when I get in the car with two kids, ages 4 and 2, it will feel like worlds away. This will be the first time I have ever embarked on an adventure like this. And, to be honest, it sounds a little nutty. My husband is not going, so it will be just me, and the kids.
How do you even prepare yourself for something like this? I am starting by preparing mentally. Whatever happens, will happen. If I get there 3 hours later than planned, so be it. If my youngest screams the last two hours, then I’ll just have to deal with it. I am trying to adopt the attitude now that come what may, we’ll survive, and hopefully it will be worth it.
We’re doing this all in the name of cousin love. Two of my siblings live within 12 hours of me, and they each have two kids. It is worth the torture of a long car trip to get all 6 of the cousins together. I want them to know and love each other as much as I know and love my own cousins. I was fortunate enough to grow up close to almost all of mine.
To prepare even more, I am going to have plenty of their favorite movies on hand, and a new DVD player for the car. I’m hoping it will be my lifesaver. Also, you can rent books on tape, including children’s books at Cracker Barrel restaurants. You can rent it at one, and then return it to another down the road. It’s great!
Also, I’m buying the kids new color wonder coloring set travel packs. They can hold them in their lap, and color without making a mess. I’m hoping that new toys and gadgets will help entertain.
Last, I’m packing snacks. And, I’m going to bring lots of new snacks they’ve never had before. I’m hoping that this will entice them to sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. That is probably wishful thinking. So, wish me luck!
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