Suzanne vs the Suitcase

Innnnnnn this corner, weighing a hefty 50 lbs, the crusher of toes and the strainer of backs, Red "the Chubby" Suitcase! Annnnnnd innnnnnn this corner, the chaaaaaallenger - me.

With Queen's "Don't Stop Me Now" playing for inspiration, I began the

arduous task of packing for the final time. Today alone, I've emptied and refilled my suitcase three times. It takes a lot of work to fit three months into a single suitcase. Then there's the weight. Every time I repack (removing the items deemed unnecessary and adding new necessities) it must be re-weighed. The airline has a strict 50 pound guideline for checked baggage - a guideline my suitcase persistently resists. However, though I've had reading of 51 and 50.5 ... I have also had a 49 and a even 46 at one weigh.

At this late hour, I am completing the "final" check of packing lists - hoping to ensure that no necessary item misses out on a trip to Spain. Hopefully the final weight will round out at an even 50 pounds or less ... otherwise I'll be making a scene pulling items at check-in tomorrow to avoid paying for extra poundage.

I can't believe I'm leaving tomorrow. The mix of emotions is kind of confusing right now ... I think excitement is at the top but I am also definitely nervous and sad about leaving people I love behind. I wish I could put you all in my suitcase ... but sadly that would probably put me over the 50 lbs ;)

I'll try to check in again from the airport tomorrow. Otherwise ... I'll write to you from Spain!