Snow birds

This is the time of year that, after the usual subject of  the weather when you talk to people, the next topic is," When do you leave for the north?"  We all start directing our attention to the weather up north  with new interest, since it now effects us, too. We start making lists for shutting down the house and what to take back with us. The taking back list always has to be revised many times over before the finally date of departure.  I always have a grander idea of what I'm taking back than is the reality of what the car can hold.  Then it's back to what I can really do with out and was just wishful thinking.

You try to have duplicates for most everything possible, but the reality is you just can't have two of everything.  I have friends who have two complete wardrobes.  One for up north and one for Florida, so no shlepping a car load of clothes back and forth.  I haven't achieved that goal, I'm afraid. Of course everything would last that much longer, but would you really want it to?

Michael is our designated list maker and has it pretty much down pat.  I always throw in my sage words of advise, however, to make sure it is all done in the most efficient way.  For instance, I heard that poring baking soda into all the drains and in the dishwasher will keep the bugs out.  Since bugs really can bug you ( I know, bad) down south, you want to do everything you can to keep them from greeting you on your return in the fall.  Also, bleach in the toilet, not the tank, keeps out the mold that can be a real issue around here. Not a welcome to come home to, either.

With so many of us Snowbirds around here, I wonder what they do for economy when we all leave?  I know my hair dresser would be pretty hard up if it weren't for us. Of course there are a few little old ladies around getting perms still who help keep them going until we get back. The golf courses must really miss the faithful gofers.  And they certainly are faithful.

But now the economy up north will start to pick up big time.  I hope they are getting ready, because here we come, ready or not.