Packing - Round 1

Packing is without a doubt one of the most challenging processes involved in taking a trip. I am now two weeks out from my departure day and am thrilled to announce that I have completed my first round of packing. I generally follow a “3-round packing” rule. Each time I cut out some unnecessary items and increase the open space in my suitcase – thus justifying a little more shopping on my trip :).

This trip I have instructed my crew that we will only be taking one carryon bag. This is proving to be an issue, but I think it will work out for the best in the end. Now that I am mostly packed, I will be helping each member of my travel team with their packing challenges. Tonight is Whitney’s turn. Let’s just say this will be the biggest hurdle :) Last year we took a trip to Central America for two weeks. Whit packed three large suitcases and a purse large enough to fit a toddler in…needless to say we won’t be repeating that step on the 2010 trip!

Currently packed in my suitcase:
2 pairs of pants
1 pair of pajamas
10 shirts
16 pairs of underwear
6 pairs of socks
1 pair of high heels
5 scarves
1 pair of high heels (I will be wearing 1 pair of practical shoes)
1 dress
90% of toiletries (1 bar of shampoo, yes bar)
1 camera
1 video camera (flip camera)
1 Passport
1 European phrase book
1 travel journal

15 Days and Counting...

22 Days and Counting...

27 Days and Counting...

Thoughts to Ponder...

All travel has its advantages. If the passenger visits better countries, he may learn to improve his own. And if fortune carries him to worse, he may learn to enjoy it."

-Samuel Johnson

34 Days and Counting...

38 Days and Counting...

Thoughts to Ponder

One hundred years from now it will not matter what kind of house you lived in...

What kind of car you drove...

What your bank balance was...

But what will matter is that you were important in the life of another.

--Adapted from a quote by Forest Witcraft

[Homeless in Milan]

Last night I was reading through a travel book - this time on Milan. I found myself getting so wrapped up in all of the incredible sites that we will see and the thrilling adventures we will encounter. As I stopped reading and sat back to reflect, I realized that I was missing the big picture.

No matter where I travel, my core intent is to always try to experience life as the locals do - the good and the bad. The sugar coating of the travel books had glazed my eyes and I was overlooking what really matters; the people.

In one hundred years, all that will truly matter is that I made a positive difference for the people I have touched whether in the USA, Pakistan or Milan.

41 Days and Counting...

Hair Care on the Go!

LUSH - Hair Care Line

Recently I was visiting with a friend about the strict airline restrictions on liquids. After our discussion it dawned on me that I need to find a hair care solution that is "flight-friendly." Research has pointed me in the direction of LUSH hair care products. They sell a variety of shampoos and conditioners in a solid bar form for all types of hair!