Hello – it’s been awhile since we have connected. We all know it’s about timing and how life gets in the way with our words.

I’m looking forward and excited to share more stories as I tap my fingers on the keyboard bringing you into my world. Let’s get our bags packed for fun!

Most of you know my love and background in the airline industry. Today that rush still holds true to my heart. At the end of this month we’re packing our bags and heading over the pond to cruise the Mediterranean.

As Mr. Rogers (I know I’m dating myself) would say “It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood, won’t you be my neighbor?”. I’m taking his words and asking, “it’s to be a beautiful cruise on the Mediterranean, won’t you come along with us?”.

We are going to be gone a little over four weeks and heading into a fall climate like the Midwest. What do you pack without breaking your back with adding additional pounds?

There are several YouTubes that show how to pack a bag. Many of them offering ideas on what to pack and what to leave home.

I try to go with the thought, “less is more”. I stick to a neutral color palette and let accessories do the work. I also try to remember I’m the one that will be toting my bag to and from lugging it into cars, trains and hotels. Many of also know, this is not fun when it weighs more than you!

My newest love are the suitcase compartment bags. These bags are great to compress your clothes so you’re able to organize and get more selections into your bag.

Shoes are the worst to pack. This is where I will leave clothes behind to have a good choice of shoes. I never wear the same shoe two days in a row. I don’t care how broke in my shoes are, if I wear them over and over, they will leave blisters if I don’t give them a break.

It only takes one time to get caught on an expired passport. Years ago the night before our travel, we took out our passports only to learn that one of our passports expired during our trip. YIPES! Customs do not take this lightly with en route expiration. Don’t get caught! Check your passport early in packing.

After making several calls and a few bucks we were able to get a same day, updated passport. Let me tell you, that is not the kind of stress you want before your departure.

Before you walk out the door, it’s another check list if forwarding the mail, making sure house is sealed tight with lights and trash out.

This was week as we’ll cross our checklists and close our bags. We hope you will be joining us in the fun. We encourage feedback and you too sharing your travel stories. The more suggestions, the better!

Stay tuned for more to come with trains, planes, automobiles and boats!