"When you come to a fork in the road....take it." Yogi Berra

Whether you're driving two hours or flying five, if you don't want chaos to reign, you have to create family travel rules. We say repeatedly to our kids the things that make us sound most like our parents.

Forget the whole idea of "I'll never be THAT mom" sentiment. This week I am exactly THAT mom and you better listen! Here's where I go.

1. Pack light

Do you really need every crayon color, Cars2 cars (the "2" is important), or Lego mini-figure? Of course not! You don't need two or more of anything except socks & underwear.

2. Be self- sufficient

You are responsible for keeping track of AND carrying everything you bring. (I'm not looking for Lego pieces!!)

3, Show Respect

Look people in the eye when they speak with you.

4. Express Gratitude

Say "thank you" more than you think is necessary including to every man or woman in the military and the waiter who serves you food. Be especially grateful for the kind, wonderful Starbucks people who keep your parents properly caffeinated.

5. Try

It doesn't matter if you don't think you have to pee, you MUST try.

6. Always Share

There is no "i" in Team Phenix (at least the "Team" part!), so hang together and be happy about it!

7. Recognize Boundaries

Stay on your own side of the car. (This in no way conflicts with sharing!)

I'm sure you have rules of your own. Did you make them up yourself or are you saying the things YOUR parents said to you?

7 Critical Road Rules