Monday, October 6, 2014

While Away? - No, But I'll Be Away A While


We are on our way and by the time you read this we'll be airborne. It's already been a busy year. We sold one house, bought another and have become well-acquainted with the building trades as we shape the new place to our own quirky taste. Tucked between the move and on-going renovations were two corneal transplants, a health scare or two and new friendships that needed to be forged and tended. Were I less a gypsy, a good book, a comfy chair and a roaring fire would make more sense, but I, make that we, have opted to visit some as yet unseen "far away places with strange sounding names." We'll be gone for 30 days on an adventure that will begin in Amsterdam and end in Paris. Most of our time will be spent in Spain and Morocco and for us this will be a "citified" vacation. While there will be lots of walking, there'll be no hikes or treks that require specialized clothes or equipment, and for the first time in years, I'll be able to board a plane with something other than Rockport hikers on my feet. Because we travel without notebooks or phones, daily features on One Perfect Bite will be pre-scheduled for release and for the duration of my time away, those posts will feature the best of the recipes that have made it to my personal rotation. While they vary in their level of difficulty and range in cost from downright cheap to lofty, they are all delicious and I really hope you'll give them a try.

In the past, their has been some curiosity as to how I pack for these long trips. It's become a point of honor for me not to pack more than I can carry and lift on my own. I must admit my suitcase gets smaller every year, but I've learned how to pack what I need in a surprisingly small amount of space, and if I continue on that course, and keep working on my upper arm strength I think I have another one or two of these trips left in me. At any rate, save for underwear and makeup, everything I need for the trip is displayed on the bed. Working from right to left you'll see a rain jacket, 5 quick-wash and dry sun-guard tops, 1 light-weight black sweater set, 1 red fleece top, 1 black knit tunic, black flexible flats, 1 pair sneakers, 2 pair of slacks (black and navy), 1 pair of jeans (white), 1 chain belt, 1 black leather belt, 1 black skirt, 1 red leotard, 1 black leotard, 1 scarf for mosque visits, and 1 black lace top to wear with slacks or skirt on more formal evenings.  All of this fits comfortably in a 24-inch suitcase,  though I do make it a point to wear the heaviest and most bulky items on the airplane. I must admit I often look like those immigrants of yore, but it works for me and it might work for you. Everything, and I mean everything,  I take is washable and I have done laundry in some very strange places, so it is important to take only those things that will dry quickly.  I'll be back in November with new recipes and some great additions for your holiday table. Till then...God bless.

15 comments :

Buttercup said...

I'm in awe of your packing. Have a great time and can't wait for new pictures and recipes. Will miss you!

mommar6 said...

I hope your time away is everything you want it to be! Have fun!

Diane said...

Have a wonderful time. We have just returned form Paris, what a pity we did not time it better so we could have met up!! Sorry I have not visited for a while, major computer problems, now I am learning how to get around the new laptop!! Take care and have fun Diane

Valerie Harrison (bellini) said...

Bon Voyage Mary. I have a friend who will be heading to Spain and Portugal in 2 short weeks; you never know if your paths might cross.

debbie said...

Hope you have a wonderful trip and I love what you've packed!!!!

pam said...

Have fun!! I am getting ready to pack for a trip and I am using you as inspiration!

Big Dude said...

Have a great trip and I believe you are going to be easy to spot in a crowd with all of that red.

We Are Not Martha said...

Wow, I'm impressed! I'm really not sure I could pack so lightly! Have SO much fun on your trip!! :)

Sues

Lori E said...

Bon voyage

Viviane said...

I wish you a safe trip, see you soon, by
Viviane

Unknown said...

You are amazing! Just looking at your packout shows you have a great sense of style as well!
I hope you enjoy trip and return safely to OR.

GLENDA CHILDERS said...

Many blessings on your trip. You already know that I LOVE Europe. Can't wait to hear all the stories, see the pictures and get new recipes.

You have had a wild year.

Fondly,
Glenda

Melinda said...

Super job. I like how you color coordinated the clothes so that everything goes together.

I have tried to do this so that i don't have to pack my whole closet.

Have a wonderful trip.

M :)

Penny said...

Bon Voyage Mary. I wish you God's Speed and a wonderful time. There is nothing better than travel to open our eyes to the world.
My Best, Penny

Tricia @ Saving room for dessert said...

How wonderful for you Mary! Have a wonderful adventure - stay safe and be sure to take lots of pictures!

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