Of those things that he doesn't want to or can't do, decide what really is critical and what can wait. You might consider having a key vendor either on-site or available for enhanced support while you're gone. It's also a great time to learn how good your succession plan is. Give a report the access he would need to really cover for you -- with your manager's complete knowledge and agreement, of course.

My 12-step program to counter workaholism may benefit from my belief in a higher power -- or at least from my husband's desire to see Italy, eat in France, dance in Spain, drink beer in Germany and see his dad in Idaho. Surely the people you care about also want to go somewhere and do something. And if you really can't think of anything relaxing, join Habitat for Humanity and help rebuild New Orleans. Just get out of the office!

One thing I don't believe in is handing out my cell phone number or checking in while I'm gone. Otherwise, I might as well be in the office, since I'll only be annoyed by the faint cell signal as we hike through the Idaho hills or the time difference between San Francisco and Rome. When I turn on Outlook's out-of-office agent and set my phone to "Away," I want to be totally away, not straddling work and vacation. Only those unable to delegate or those in the medical profession should stay attached.

So, if all your previous vacations were spent working remotely, then make this your goal: In 2006, I will plan my vacation, and I will take it.

You may actually like not working!