GON Reader Letter #1
I Have Used this List for the Last 40 Years
After we went to the beach and not one of the six of us remembered to bring a beach
blanket (my dear mother-in-law volunteered my beach towel since it was the biggest), I decided it was time to make a travel list.
I did it like a newspaper with blocks outlined in black for each category with headings such as clothes, hair care, food, bike
stuff, beach stuff, etc.
We used to take our bikes with us so it was important to remember helmets, repair kits (that was added after my bike got a flat and I was walking it back in 90+ degree heat while my husband rode his back to get the truck and fetch me -
it didn't help that I was picking up pretty beach stones along the way and my shorts were beginning to droop with the weight!).
I had a column for food since we often prepared breakfast in our room. I have used this list for the last 40 years!
The list is saved on my computer and I print up several copies and then cross out the items as they get packed. I highlight the last minute ones so we are sure to not forget anything!
-- Dottie
GON Reader Letter #2
It Pays to Speak Up
My mom was providing care for my brother's children. For awhile, she wasn't receiving any compensation for her time or expenses to pick up the kids, deliver them where they needed to be, etc., until
one day my parents had a talk with my brother about it.
An agreement was reached to everyone's satisfaction. Mom still did the care of the grandchildren and is getting paid for watching them.
So, it does pay to speak up. After all, childcare does cost. And good childcare costs more!
-- Bill Davies, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
GON Reader Letter #3
No Clutter Gifts
When it comes to gifts, I have asked my family not to buy me anything unless it is something I can eat, drink, or go to! I enjoy the gift, but not the clutter.
--Rosalind Husband
