I had a hard time packing this morning. Probably mostly because I gave myself too much time so I spent it all pondering what to bring. It's much better when I only leave myself an hour and I have a frenzy of grab, stuff, zip, gone. When I have time to think about what I'm packing I feel like I'm preparing to head out on the Oregon Trail. I have a weight limit (50lbs) and a size limit (1 duffel) and certain types of weather (cold) and events (races) that I have to be ready to encounter. I wouldn't have so much trouble with the weight limit if it wasn't for the small library that I like to carry around with me. It breaks my heart to leave unread books behind. This trip I had to make two big sacrifices-- Pelear and Volokhonsky's new translation of War & Peace because it's takes up too much space and Harry Potter et le Sang Mele because, um, I don't actually speak French (yet). Don't worry, I've already read both stories so I'm not missing out on any content here, just the language. This type of dilemma makes me think that I should look into those digital books. hmm, should have thought that one through before Christmas.

Oh well, now I'm packed and in seattle ready for a solid day of traveling and many hours spent waiting around in airports tomorrow. Don't worry, I've been reading Stardust in the airports this season and I'm about a quarter of the way through so I should be able to polish off another quarter tomorrow. (Thank goodness for chain bookstores all being arranged the same- I can walk in and walk directly to Stardust without having to look around.)