One week from today I’ll be taking off for Sveden.  People keep asking if I’m packed.  Please.  People.  It’s one whole week.  I did dig through my files yesterday to make sure I knew where my passport was.  And I’m thinking about what to pack …

Books.  My nerdly friends will be glad to know I’ve chosen my reading material:  Ilium by Dan Simmons and Uncle Fred in the Springtime by P.G. Wodehouse.  I’m not much for science-fiction - more of a fantasy girl myself – but my friend has promised that the writings of Dan Simmons are of literary quality.   I’m holding him to this claim; I’ll let you know whether or not he led me astray upon my return.  And P.G. Wodehouse – how can you go wrong with P.G. Wodehouse?  Yeah, I can’t imagine either. 

Camera.  Got a new camera.  I’m sure you’re familiar with the new-shoe-phenomenon – where a new pair of sneakers suddenly makes a kids run really fast?  Well, I’m near certain the same principle applies to new cameras.  Of course, any of you who have seen me in action with said new camera – tongue out, nose scrunched – may think differently.  But I remain hopeful all the same.  

Shoes.  AND I bought a new pair of shoes.  Cute and comfy.  They were a bit more than I wanted to spend, however.  So they will be traveling in my carry-on.  That way if our luggage gets lost I may have lost gifts, my underwear, and all my clothes, but by george I’ll have my new shoes!