Bethany “They’re already setting up for the March!”
Rachael – “How could you tell you were in the right area?”
“I was in this place where they were putting up banners, and I wondered, and then the speakers started blaring Sarah McLaughlin.”
“Oh. Yeah.”
“Dude! I just almost got hit by a limo!”
“Are you driving through DC and talking to me at the same time?”
“I’m NOT driving!”
T minus how many days? Four? Jaiz, I’m getting freaking excited. I’ve done almost nothing to get ready for the trip, though. I am the biggest packing/list whore there is. Usually. When I travel abroad (ahhhh….), one of my favorite parts is the list-making. That’s why it’s so weird that I’ve done nothing. I think I have a note to myself somewhere that says to change the sheets for my house-sitter. I know I’ll forget that one, though. I’ve barely thought about what I’m bringing to wear. Travel in the US seems so much easier and so much more difficult at the same time.
When I leave the country, I take one of everything: one dose of sudafed, one of tylenol cold, one bandage, one tube of antiseptic cream, one needle, one clothesline. Here, I know I’ll never be out of range of a drugstore. But the pace of the US is so fast. You’ve gotta know where you’re going and how to get there and where you’re going to stay and what you’re going to do. Or at least, when thinking about a US trip, that’s how you’re made to feel.
I’m trying to reject that. I know where we’re staying in DC, because with the March and millions of people descending on the city, that was imperative (and ass-expensive, too). I know where we’re staying for the Festival, because I want to worry only about wool. I know how we’re getting to NY and back.
That’s it. That’s just about all I know. I’m taking a page from Greta’s book. She knows she doesn’t need those kinds of plans, that it will all work out, and it does, and happily so. Why is that so easy for me to accept in other countries, but not here? I’m working on it. I’m going to transplant my Italian serendipity and place it right on the east coast. Kay?
Oh! I started the Bella cardie in Calmer last night. I think I might really be crazy. 2+ weeks? In lace? Every other row there are these weird k2togs that, because of the following y.o., are just tricky to pick up. I have to look at and fiddle with every single damn k2tog. I don’t know why they’re wonkier than normal k2togs…. Frustrating and slow. Oy. But it’ll be good non-boring travel knitting.
And go read Cari today. (Well, every day, for that matter.) I love her.
I used to be the best and most organized packer–especially when we lived in England. I positively suck at it now. I keep thinking to myself, I can get it cheap at Target if I forgot it. I think it is fabulous to travel without a plan. Kevin and I did that for our second marriage honeymoon. You have this pretty loose itinerary and that just leaves you open to so many wonderful things. And with Bethany’s travelling experience and the many friends along the way–the trip will be one of a kind!
Ah… lists… I used to do Excel spreadsheets of my outfits, matching shoes, jewelry, handbag… I’m such a girl! Now I just throw stuff in a bag and head out… comes from so many spontaneous trips to LA over the past couple of years.
You’re going to have a fabulous time! And don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of the K2togs as you go on. Lace is faster than stockingette, believe me.
You KNOW how I love lists….but strangely, all I can think about is have I studied my anagrams LISTS enough to truly hold my own at the slumber party that WILL include Scrabble….?
just kidding.
But seriously, I’m just SO positive that this will be the best.trip.ever.
Spot (and HUG) the blogger…
you’re IT!
Ready? SET? GO!
I love you too, lady. Only a few more days now before we meet face to face! The key to NYC in Spring is layers, layers, layers. The weather is a changeable beast this time of year. And remember we’ll be walking a lot, so comfy shoes. Since you’ll be coming from a march, this shouldn’t be a problem. 🙂
MWAH! Can’t wait!!!
Ha ha to your story…Bethany’s experience is mine everyday I’m going to work. Hmmmm…Knit Happens was a bit a buzz about your coming visit last night…blog life is bizarre…it’s just too weird to never have met you but know who you are having lunch with when your coming….I feel like a stalker or something! 🙂 Glad you guys are getting excited about THE MARCH…it’s going to be great!
You must be confused. *I* am the biggest list whore in the world. 😛 pthbbbbb.
I always love running into others who love to make lists (and lists of lists). I am not always the most organized of people but sitting down with tea to make a list makes me feel all in control again, even if nothing ever comes of the neatly numbered items….enjoy your trip. We’ve had beautiful weather here on the east coast lately!
I’m right there with you and the wonky k2tog on the Bella!! I’ve tried EVERYTHING to make the stitches less weird (even e-mailed Joan MM herself for any sage advice she might kick down) but to no avail. I ripped out my first attempt because the funny stitches irritated me so much, but on try numero dos, I decided to take a deep breath, let it go and just accept it. After blocking it will look much better, guaranteed, and who the hell is going to check my stitches out like I check my stitches out, really?
And have a great trip!!
My list is positively enormous, but running in to Target is not an option with 30 sheep in the trailer! Plus, I need to remember everything for our display.
We are going to zoom down the road to Ohio, drop off some of the sheep, then to Maryland!! I am so looking forward to meeting so many of the folks I love to read! Can hardly wait!
hello
anyone here wanna talk to me