Family travel is one of the most important parts of our lives over here. Another major priority: Education. This is one of the main reasons why Powerwoman became a college professor. It’s why she plans special science programs every year for L’s charter school. And it’s why I’m on the board of directors of the girls’ preschool.

Every year, that preschool gets the bulk of its fundraising done at a dinner dance auction. This year’s auction was held last night. In an attempt to cut costs this year, the school board decided NOT to hire an outside auctioneer to run the live auction part of the evening. The alternative: Moi.

I did not take the assignment lightly. I studied bid-calling. I rehearsed for hours. I developed some of my own catchphrases. I also made sure I was wearing an outfit other parents would remember forever. So I hired a costume designer. And I had her build me a cowboy centaur costume. The result, dear readers, was one of the most amazing costumes I’ve ever seen. No, nothing about the experience technically related to travel. But I thought you’d appreciate it nevertheless.

Heaven Centaur and the Mrs.