Getting Ready for a Trip

So, I am going on a trip soon, and spent my weekend cleaning the house and doing chores to get ready to leave town.  I did the same on Monday, and Tuesday, I dragged out the suitcases, and started packing. I had help. Taki nosed around the carry on bag, and climbed into the body of the large suitcase. More than once.

My cats do not like my being gone. I have a really good cat sitter who visits with the cats twice a day, and tries to play with them.  They do not play much.  Haiku likes to cuddle.  Taki likes to bite. But, when she wants to be held, she is very clear in giving signals about her desire.

It took me five days this time to get ready for my trip.  I am a single adult, traveling alone.  What do people do who have children?