[HairOfTheDog]

You are the only one that can recognize all the things that need to be done before the trip. The rest don't see it. I have been that person in some circles, but I know that my Dad was the one who usually had that role too. My brother and I could sit around feeling pretty ready to go and just not see it.

Part of the story that is true, is that they don't see it because they have faith you will handle it. When my dad is not around, I become the "one", and get frustrated with my brother too. I feel for you!

[Corin Stormhands]

You are the only one that can recognize all the things that need to be done before the trip. The rest don't see it.

Yep. That's true. But even when I say "you need to do this before we go," it doesn't happen.

That whole episode with Corin, Jrs. ear surgery is a prime example. I nagged the Mrs. every day for two weeks to take care of that before she finally did. And we needed to know to reschedule. I nagged her for two weeks to find out if her sister was going to visit us at the beach. Finally, I had to find out...

Part of the problem is my nature. I HATE being surprised by anything. So when there's a question about something, I want to know the answer right away. I can handle it if the answer is unavailable, but if it's readily known, I want to know it.

Plays into holidays and birthdays too. Don't surprise me with anything. In a lot of ways because I need/want to know how much money is being spent. But I can also say "these are the things I want for birthday/father's day/Christmas." And I'm pretty specific because I know they're going to spend money, so it should be money spent for things I need/want. I'm not sure that I've EVER gotten anything on my list.

The Mrs., on the other hand, LOVES surprises, and wants to make a big deal out of holidays/birthdays. I think it's a wimmin thing...Drives me nuts.