live and learn

I'm anxiously counting down the days until we board the plane for Europe.  Our first stop is Dublin, Ireland and I'm already dreaming of temperatures cool enough to make me want a sweater. The forecast shows highs in the 60s! If you live in Dallas, you understand the awfulness of 39 days of 100+ temperatures.

Naturally, I haven't started packing. I did pull out my old backpack from our post-college Eurotrip. I've missed that thing. So many good memories! My only (embarrassing) regret from that trip was bringing grungy clothes. It seemed like a great idea at the time, but I hardly had anything to wear at night and looked pretty frumpy during the day. Oh well, I've learned.

My other mistake was bringing a heinous yellow shoulder bag (it came with the backpack..) and using it as a purse. Seriously?? I don't know what I was thinking. Fortunately I've realized these missteps and I'm correcting them!

I was in NY for market several weeks ago and came across a really cool line called Will Leather Goods and fell in love with their Dhurrie Messenger Bag. It's spacious and durable and so unique! Mine just arrived and it's perfect! It'll hold my big camera, journal (just picked up some Moleskin journals!), sunglasses and wallet safely while we tour.

Now that I've got my day-bag sorted on to clothing. Jeans/pants, sweaters and scarves — my favorite travel accessory — for the cooler cities. Tank tops, shorts, a sundress & sandals for the warmer cities. And of course walking shoes for all cities! Notice that I didn't mention gross t-shirts in there? I'm already getting better at this!

So, there's my list. What are your packing and traveling must-haves and/or tips!?