Paper Chain

Dear Diary,

I made a paper chain this morning to help me count down the days until I leave for Italy. It's not just any ol' paper chain though, I made it out of this. Yes, because I'm fancy like that :)

Day 24--that's today. I didn't get any more planning or details figured out, but I did do some shopping! I bought this dress, gawked after this duffle bag, and scoured a few other stores in attempt to brainstorm where the rest of my pre-trip shopping money will go. Here is my list of what I'm wanting:

2-3 colored/plain t-shirts
1-2 cardigans
1 pair flats for walking (well, duh, for walking, but I mean LOTS of walking)
1 pair sandals for walking (see above note)
Duffle bag or small bag/suitcase with wheels
Cross-body purse
Travel toiletry containers/bag
Denim shorts

But I also have to keep in mind that I'm getting my hair did in two weeks, so I'll need to budget this all out a bit. Good news/bad news is I have lots of baby-sitting coming up! Did I mention I'm baby-sitting again? I gotta make this trip happen somehow. The time away from life is a little draining (I'm sitting on my days/time off from work) but hopefully worth it. Actually, it's totally worth it so far since it's not only helping me get to Italy, but also continue paying my bills in the meantime. Ugh bills. Changing subjects.

I also have a new Italy related goal: not check any luggage. Eek! Yes, that means I will only be packing a large carry on and purse/bag for my travels. I'm really trying to limit my packing list to basics and things I can re-wear and/or mix & match. I'm hesitant to have a large back to roll around considering all the moving around we are doing. We will be traveling between cities at least 5 days out of our trip and traveling all over each city during the day. If we happen to get stuck somewhere not being able to check our luggage into a hotel/hostel, then I'd hate to get stuck with some obviously touristy lug of a suitcase behind me.

Well, I'm off to go tear a link of my chain. Gotta make sure to document the last 24 days before we go! I'll be glad I did it later--I know that much!

P&L,
Allison Elizabeth