Counting Down

As of today there are 56 days to departure.

I'm trying to keep things streamlined, and although the airlines permits two pieces of luggage, I hope I can get by with just one. It will make things much simpler, methinks. However, I keep adding to my collection of gifts for the Menshikov family and now I'm not sure I can squeeze the stuff into my carry-on sports bag.

I did purchase vacuum bags - you know, those space bags where you suck the air out of the bag to reduce bulk? Why do compressed bags seem heavier than when they had air in them? I'm so wanting to pack these things and complete the suitcase part of packing, but just imagine how wrinkled the specialty T-shirts will be, sitting squished for another six weeks. So for now things are strung all over the place and totally messing with my Type-A flirting-with-OCD personality. I like everything in its place - NOW!

I made extra pockets to put on outside, inside and everywhere I can think of. hah!

This is sort of paradoxical because I'm also a very creative person. All my closets are full of arts & craft materials. When I have a project going, the place is a mess and will stay that way for way longer than I would like. It's a trade-off. Very worth it.

The Luggage:

1. Hard case 24" suitcase. Regulation is 26" but I'm allowing for handle & wheels. I sure don't want any surprises at check-in. This lovely dark red Dukap brand suitcase is for clothes & electronics not needed for the long plane ride. Also, toiletries & extra snacks for return trip. That pretty much does it for capacity here.

2. Carry-on Sports Bag. This is for the gifts. I had a blast making little crafts, and gathering gizmos, gadgets & surprises. There are tiny little bags with jewelry, inside medium bags with essential oils, contained in larger bags with ... wait for it ... 2026 football champs, Seattle Seahawks merch!! Too much fun.

3. Carry-on tote. Laptop, phone, snacks, crochet project, tickets & ID, handbag items.

4. The Coat. This is a walking garment bag! It's a very cozy full-length hoodie. I made crochet mesh pockets, two outside and 2 inside - PLUS cut-off pantyhose sewn closed at the toes, to hold a pair of slipper shoes.

I hope there are no glitches at check-in and customs. I plan to browse duty-free gift shops at Seattle for smoked salmon & Frangos chocolates (more gifts) and perhaps at the Doha airport since there's a 3-hour stop over there.

.... to be continued ....