21 October, 2014

Packing Report

This was the original packing list from our recent trip. 
I've crossed out the items I didn't use.
 
4 sleeveless/short sleeve layering pieces:
berry
gray
charcoal
ivory
4 long sleeve tees:
ivory
tan
charcoal
mustard
3 V-neck cashmere sweaters:
navy
gray
teal
3 button-front shirts:
denimish
gray/teal plaid
gray paisley(tunic length)
2 pants:
white cords
charcoal
1 navy skirt and tights
1 charcoal wool blazer
 
With temperatures unexpectedly warm
- upper 60s and 70s -
layers weren't necessary.  I never wore the blazer.
We didn't do any "fine" dining, so the skirt
remained in the suitcase.
 
It's reasonable to assume that many pieces
can be eliminated, because
in Paris I will have access to laundry,
but, December weather should call
 for some layering pieces, so
I'll be looking for that happy medium
to allow more room for
shopping!
 
These items worked for me.
The color combinations were easy and
flexible.  I felt well-dressed and appropriate
in my choices.  The white cords were
fun to wear, though I don't see them
making the trip to Paris.  My boots
proved to be very comfortable.  I had casual shoes
in the bag, which I did wear, and need
to decide which pair of
shoes will accompany my boots
across the pond.
 
Overall it was a relief to see how versatile
the carry-on bag can be. 
It eliminates a certain amount of "stress"
to know that I can do this,
though it's not a convenient system if there are several
overnight stops involved. 
Everything had to be loaded and layered
rather precisely in the bag
(it was full)
which made for less-than-fun repacking
every morning. 
I'm looking forward to having a destination
allowing me to unpack once.
 
 


Gratuitous Cute Grandson Photo

 

Meet Levi
the reason for our recent road trip.


03 October, 2014

Trial Run

 
This is the 22 inch suitcase I purchased for the trip to Paris
in December.
 
 
Tomorrow we leave for a week's travel
to the East coast, which is always a favorite
destination.
 
I'm using this outing as a trial run
for the December trip.
My travel guru strongly urged using
only a carry-on bag
which will be a new experience for me.
 
So.  In this bag - this very small bag - I have
4 sleeveless/short sleeve layering pieces:
berry
gray
charcoal
ivory
4 long sleeve tees:
ivory
tan
charcoal
mustard
3 V-neck cashmere sweaters:
navy
gray
teal
3 button-front shirts:
denimish
gray/teal plaid
gray paisley(tunic length)
2 pants:
white cords
charcoal
1 navy skirt and tights
1 charcoal wool blazer
yoga pants. cami and oversize tee
undies and socks for a week
1 pair of shoes
1 pair of slippers
3 scarves
cosmetic bag
my kindle
assorted charging cords.
 
My tote bag holds:
 a small crossbody purse
several books
wallet
aspirin and other necessities
perfume
lipstick
pen
My watch,
pearl studs and
simple hoops are it for jewelry.
 
Tomorrow I'll wear:
 tall boots (tan)
navy pants
ivory vest
the 4th scarf
and a long sleeve tee.
(which I'll leave at Naphtali's and reclaim on our return)
There is also a weather-proof jacket
which will be thrown into the back of the car.
 
Naphtali and Aidan have offered/agreed
to keep Charlie for us while we're gone.
This is a chance for them to see how a dog would fit into
 the new school routines and
we're glad to leave him with family.
So our trip starts with an overnight in
Minneapolis, which is
always a treat.
 
It all works on paper so we'll see...
I went in today for a manicure
- I love the shellac -
so my nails will be lovely
- and indestructible -
for the duration.
 
The forecast for next week indicates mid to upper 60s
with the possibility of a 70 thrown into the mix.
Everything is set for a great time!