Things to do before you leave:
Forward newspapers and magazines
Stop mail
Pay the rent and other necessary bills
Wash clothes
Clean house, including dishes, refrigerator, and emptying garbage
Change the message on your answering machine
Unplug electrical stuff
Give copies of your keys to someone else
Confirm airline tickets
Arrange for pet and plant care
Balance your bank account
Cut your hair
Visit the dentist and deal with any other potential medical problems
Send in the tax return form