Pages

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

First week of freedom...

It's day 3 of my 365 day vacation...and I have already stopped in at work. I have also checked in with the girls every day. But, just to see how they are doing. I know everyone is great, it's me that is having separation anxiety. However, I'm sure that it won't last long...right?

I was also told that I haven't updated my blog since I left work. So, Jenn this one's for you!

In my few days of being unemployed I have been rather busy. I've managed to spend a lot of time with friends and family including hitting West Edmonton Mall (Canada's largest shopping centre) to spend a few days with some great friends, attend a wedding, lunch dates with friends, visit my nephews school and the list goes on. And here I thought I may get a wee bored. Nope. I don't think that will happen. Well for a few weeks at least.

Out on the town with one of my Besties!

Three great girlfriends and I spending a weekend away.
Shopping of course!

BEST wedding decor EVER! And of course best favours.
Who doesn't LOVE home-made jam.
Despite all the fun I have been having visiting with family and friends,  I have started to contemplate packing. Yes. I. Said. Packing. Although I still have about three weeks till the big departure date I figure nothing like the present to get everything I will need for the next year into 1 suitcase. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, I said 1 suitcase.

Here's the deal. We fly on a domestic airline from Edmonton to Vancouver then we board our international flight. And on this particular domestic airline you are only allowed to check 1 bag, a second will cost you. And, since I am currently unemployed with no income, I have chosen to see if I can strategically pack all my belongings into 1, yes 1 large suitcase. For some reason however I am doubting my ability to fit everything into just 1. In reality I will more than likely cave and pay the charge for a second bag, let's be realistic I will be taking more than one pair of shoes.

Now, I am curious, if you were leaving for 1 year, what are some of the things you would insist on taking with you?

2 comments:

Jodi Gulka said...

Hey Shelley, glad to know you're enjoying the first days of freedom. Re the packing...never forget that you can buy amazingly cheap clothing when you are travelling too. And as a bonus it's completely appropriate for the climate and season of the country you're in. When I'm in India for 10 weeks I pack 2 shirts, 2 pairs of pants and 2 skirts and get by fine until I get settled and then do local shopping. T-shirts for $1. Shoes for $3. Pair of jeans $3. So much fun too to connect with local people. So pack light and make room for shopping in the schedule.

When I pack for the long hauls I always focus on the things you might find more difficult to find in developing countries - special toiletries or personal items, a sleeping bag liner (in case of dirty sheets in hotels), and much more. If you want me to send you a list, let me know.

All the best to you.... jodi

Shelley Rattray said...

Thanks for the great tips Jodi! You are right in the fact I can do lots of shopping there. I think I should take out half the contents of my suitcase right now!

Where in the World have I been...