things have changed for me, and that's okay, i'm on my way

Today, Internet, I would like to talk about packing. But first, an announcement: I finally cleaned my room for pretty much the first time in months. Probably since last summer. Granted, I haven't been living here for about 3/4 of the last year...but still. That's a long time. So, for your viewing pleasure, and my roommates' extreme gratification, some before and after pictures:




And two more after pictures:



Thank you, thank you. Neat; now I have a words and pictures blog. Just like that!

On to the subject at hand: packing, particularly for three weeks in a foreign country when one has NO IDEA what she will be doing. My "To Pack" list encompasses four major categories: (1) clothing, (2) toiletries, (3) academic stuff and (4) other. The problem, I think, is that I feel like I'm moving my entire life for almost a month. Also, I don't want to not bring something, need or want it once I'm there, and have to spend money on buying it again. My mother suggests that I pack like a traveler, minimally, and carrying clothes around with me while I'm over there, in case I'm sweaty but want to go out to dinner and need a new, clean shirt. The problem here, however, is that since I have an apartment and everything...I don't want to live like a traveler. I want to live like a resident, since for three weeks, that's what I am.

Another problem: how many bags should I pack? I want to have room to bring souvenirs home for the people I love and those that I don't love so much, but asked me to buy them things. So I feel like that would necessitate two checked bags. But, ugh, I do not like being weighed down with extra bags. Also, I'm bringing a carry on luggage piece (my to-die-for "Indiana Jones" bag that I adore), just in case my bags get lost for a day or two. But that's going to be a lot of partially-empty luggage, especially if I bring my backpack as my personal item.

Sigh...the trials and tribulations of a world traveler...so tough...(haha)

If you have any suggestions or hints, Internet, I would be very grateful if you left a comment or two.


OMFG.
VIENNA TOMORROW.
I'm freaking out.