Packed and Ready to Go

My bed in the pre-packing stage.

All of the packing advice I've read on the internet said to lay out everything that I wanted to pack, and then take half...I have to admit, it is a lot harder than it looks!

Those of you who know me know how attached I am to my wardrobe.  Style is my favorite medium of self expression, and I take it very seriously.  Packing for six months with only a carry on suitcase and a Vera Bradley duffel bag is any fashion-focused girl's nightmare.  I ended up packing my duffel and suitcase once, only to find out the items I had planned to put in my backpack weren't going to fit. So after completely re-packing all three bags, and sacrificing a few items to either stay home or be shipped later, I finally zipped up my bags and am ready to go.

The final result.

It's been a busy week, but it's gone by in a flash.  I can't believe I'm leaving for Wales in the morning!  Time has flown by.  It seems like just yesterday that I was still summer, and I was daydreaming about jetting off to the United Kingdom. 

It was harder than I expected to have to say all of my goodbyes, but my Dad pointed out that its more of a "see you in six months" than a real "farewell."  It was kind of sad, but I know that I have it much easier than the kids before did.  I've set up Skype dates and phone calls that will definitely help me keep up with all of the happenings back home.

Despite my slight nervousness, I am so excited that my adventure is finally here!  Next stop Cardiff!