That’s right: February 11 -20, I will be frolicking with the sprites and leprechauns.  I am so excited!

In general when I travel, I only take a carry-on and my purse.  I want to whittle that down quite a bit, so that eventually I can use a 17″ carry-on.  But I am taking it step by step, trying new things on each trip, and constantly re-evaluating my travel necessities.

Right now, I am working toward packing a minimal amount of clothes.  Inspired by Rick Steves, Francine Jay, and Karol Gadja, I am already planning my packing list for our trip.  Having done a basic amount of research on weather conditions while we will be there in February, I anticipate a damp, chilly, and possibly rainy vacation.  Initially I was thinking about bring some cute dresses, tights, and cute flats for walking.  Hmmm….  That probably wouldn’t go well with chilly damp weather.

After consulting a few people who have been there, I have decided to amp up my rain wardrobe.  I will definitely bring two pairs of jeans, which will be warmer than tights.  I may bring long underwear (long johns?  what do normal people call them?) for underneath as an added bonus layer.  I was also able to score a rain parka on eBay for a good price.  It hasn’t arrived yet, so I’m nervous that it will fit weird.  But the price was right, and I took the risk.  The last “essential” rain item as a decent pair of shoes that would keep the water out.  My cute flats and open-toed heels weren’t making the cut.  My boots don’t go with my jeans.  So what’s a girl to do?  I had some store credit at L.L. Bean, and I picked up these waterproof walking shoes.  I plan to wear these items every day on our trip.

I don’t mean for this to read like a Haul Video, but I am feel like I am being realistic about the weather and conditions for our trip, trying to find products that will meet my needs and last a long time, and looking for items that I will use long after this trip is done.

The only thing left to figure out is shirts/tops/sweaters.  I am feeling ambitious and may try to knit this sweet little shrug before we leave.  Maybe in green?