Andy (24), Dave (22), Dan and me during our recent travels.
You know you’ve been neglecting your blog when you can’t remember how to log in.
It’s been weeks since I’ve had a minute to think about writing. My family went on vacation recently and I was out of town for 11 days. That may not seem like such a big deal, but you have to put it in perspective: There was only one other time in the 20 years since I started the magazine that I have taken off that much consecutive time in one chunk.
The preparation that goes into leaving a business when you’re the owner is mind-boggling. In the early days, when we had no centralized office and all of the editorial and administrative work was on my shoulders, I would be up all night for days in a row before I could leave. When I’d reach our destination (back then it was usually “grandma’s house”) I would go to my room and sleep for two days. I’m sure my extended family thought it was a bit strange (or even rude) but I was simply exhausted and in desperate need of some quiet time to regenerate.
Before this trip, I’m happy to say, I didn’t pull any all-nighters. But there were weeks of long days and copious “to do” lists leading up to our departure date. Thankfully, Raising Arizona Kids is in a better, stronger place these days. I have an incredible staff of professionals who approach their work with a great sense of ownership of the end product. They have my back. Which is why I was able to spend 11 bilssful days with my family — exploring new places, eating new foods, sharing stories and laughing until my face hurt.
Karen Davis Barr 
Karen, so happy for you. As a small business owner I understand how difficult it is to get away. When the kids were little, I used to take them to visit my family in Pennsylvania. They would play and swim, and I would sleep! If I wasn’t doing that, I was on the phone with the office where everytime I left, there was something that nobody else wanted to handle. This was before email and cell phones.
Now, with a reduced staff and more streamlined operations, it has been easier for me to open up some personal time.
How lovely that you and your family could recently enjoy extended time together!
Debbie