With all the traveling I've been doing, especially over the last several years, you would think I'd learned by now! But, each new trip begins the terrible, horrible process once more...
I've watched demonstrations of what to pack and how to pack it, yet I still don't learn. I've spoken to professional packers (aka former flight attendants) to learn their secrets. I've rolled clothes, flattened them, stuffed them into vacuum bags and pumped the air out - all to no avail. I've written lists based on each day's planned events and wardrobe needs and then selected clothing and accessories to fill those needs -- and completely forgot certain 'unmentionables'!
Then, just this past July, when traveling to the RWA conference in Anaheim, I really messed up! I needed to pack partly-sightseeing clothes and partly-business clothes for the split trip. When I got there and was in the thick of the conference, I realized I'd actually only brought about half the clothes I needed!
So, as I approach a very special trip this month -- my hubby and I are celebrating our recent 35th wedding anniversary by going to HAWAII! -- my quandary begins anew -- what and how to pack!?
OH -- the one thing I never have trouble with is what reading material to take along! LOL! The first thing I do (even my kids know this!) is to assemble the collection of romance novels I plan to read. On a 'good' trip, I can average a book a day, but I'm thinking there will be some quality, dedicated beach reading time on this trip! The pile is growing quickly as I contemplate more than a week away with nothing to do....
I would love some packing suggestions from all of you -- what works for you? BIG suitcase? Stuffing as much in as possible and sitting on it to get it zippered? Planning? Professional packing consultant? What? What secrets can you share or tips can you offer? BTW -- my one packing talent? I can tell the weight of a packed bag when I lift it! I cannot lift 50 lbs, so if I can lift it, it's under the weight limit.
I'll choose three commentors and send them each a book I picked up at the RWA conference, along with a copy of one of my books! You have until end of day on Saturday to post before I choose a winner....and you'll have my undying gratitude for your help!
Terri is head-down on a binge of deadline-mania writing right now, but she's thrilled that her new Harlequin Historical MACLERIE CLAN series begins with The Highlander's Stolen Touch and it's available now! For more info about Terri's books and events, visit her website....
