to-do list: week of march 29, 2010

1) Book a plane ticket to Croatia. You heard that right — our plans to visit the Balkans are well underway! Having gone vacation-less for almost two full years, I was intent on saving up for a really excellent getaway, and Split, Croatia has won this year’s title of “dream destination.” Early September, warm Mediterranean breeze, island-hopping, day trips to Dubrovnik and Bosnia…I only wish I were buying one-way airfare away from the daily grind. Alas! It’ll have to be a round-trip ticket, but that’ll make the week even more precious.

2) Bulk up my lunches. I can finally run without gasping for air, and I find myself looking forward to my jog all day. But my anemic lunch and snacks leave me ravenous for a big dinner, which doesn’t precipitate comfortable exercise immediately after work or supper. So I’m experimenting with leftovers for lunch instead of sandwiches, hoping that a happy belly at work + nice light dinners = prime running fuel. (More on those delicious leftovers later this week!)

3) Go all-out for Easter. This is the second year that I’ll be visiting Ted’s family for the holiday, and they sure know how to celebrate. On the agenda: an ultra-competitive egg hunt, an equally competitive egg-decorating contest, incredible Easter baskets, and two types of traditional Easter breads (Italian and Portuguese). Plus, I’ll get to see The Ten Commandments (their Easter must-see) in its entirety. I love their holiday spirit; you never get too old for tradition!

Are any of you dreamily looking forward to a trip? And what holiday traditions does your family hold dear?