Need help with packing!
 

Okay, I DO know how to pack for Europe. In fact, I've handed out a lot of advice to other people about how to do it. I once went to Spain for a month with one small suitcase and a carry-on.
What I need is for somebody to remind me to take my own advice, since I am a week away from my trip and I can't seem to get really tough on myself.
I think the problem is that I haven't traveled in awhile, due to my late husband's long illness, and I also haven't shopped for clothing in awhile either. So, I bought some new clothes for ridiculous summer sale prices, and now I want to take them all. I am going for 12 days, including 2 nights in London, then an overnight in Stratford, 5 more nights in London, and then 3 nights in Edinburgh. I KNOW I don't need a different outfit for every day, plus a bunch of evening outfits for the theater and dinner.
Another problem: I'm not sure of the weather. The weather channel is showing 72 degrees today in London and 68 in Edinburgh, and cooler at night, of course. I had just ruled out my loafers in favor of a pair of Clark's flat sandals and a pair of Dansko heeled sandals for evening, and I had already eliminated my rain jacket in favor of a dressier jacket to be used in the evening. Now I'm panicking that it might be cool for night walking tours and the Military Tattoo.
I think this is last-minute jitters, but I'm hoping somebody will talk sense to me. I have selected 4 pairs of slacks (2 cotton, 2 dressy), 4 skirts (each can be casual or dressy, depending on the top), the dressy jacket, 3 light cardigans matching various outfits, and, this is where it gets crazy--15 different tops, including 5 cotton tees, 3 sleeveless tops, 2 dressy tops, 2 crinkle cotton shirts, 2 black jersey tops, and a light long-sleeved sweater top.
All of this fits very easily into my 24-inch pullman suitcase, since the fabrics are quite light, but that doesn't mean I WANT to fit everything in. I know the suitcase is going to feel heavy each time I navigate through an airport, train, or subway. (I will be throwing away my nightgowns and underwear as I go, to open up room for a few souvenirs. But I don't really intend to buy much, since I've already been to Britain.)
Okay, I've admitted my craziness, so I'm hoping for help in the form of pep talks! Thanking you in advance....

OK - that seems like waaaaay too many outfits. You are talking 8 bottoms (skirts and slacks) and FIFTEEN tops.

If most of your things coordinate (hopefully they do) then -- Even w/o doubling up some of the tops/cardigans -- you have a minimum of 100 outfits there. 120 if everything goes w/ everything but that probably isn't the case.

For that short a trip I would suggest 3 pair of slacks and at most 2 skirts, plus 6 or 7 tops that cordinate w/ most everything. When you add in cardies, scarves, jackets etc. you still have more than 35 distinct outfits.

OH - and of the above - I'd be wearing 1 pair of slacks, 1 top and 1 jacket on the flight so even less would be in my suitcase . . . . .

This sounds so familar. One of the tricks I use is to organize everything I think I want to take several days or up to a week before departing,and then I eliminate a couple of items each day.

The three sleeveless tops seem way too much unless there is a heat wave and in that case you can always pop into Marks & Spencers and purchase any extras if they are absolutely necessary and you'll likey find that it's not.

If you take Janis' advice, which is much more specific than mine, you'll do fine .

Remember...less is more (or at least enough)

Wow, when you put in the numbers, it all seems even crazier.
Actually, I was counting the outfit I was wearing on the plane, although those 3 pieces with sandals don't take down the overall numbers much, do they?
I'm going to eliminate a pair of slacks right away, as you suggested, and then I'm going to fight with myself over the skirts and tops for awhile.
I also realize I have way too many dressy outfits, considering my daughter will be the only one in London who will know I'm duplicating things for theater and dinner. I know I could take one dressy outfit and be okay, but I can't figure out what to toss.
But, Janis, you have been a big help to me just by giving me a reality check on the number of combinations I have.
PS: Yes, most things are mix and match. I DO know the rules. I'm just not following them very well tonight. I know I can conquer this--I did it for Spain, taking far less clothing for more than twice the days!

Maureen,
lol, i know how you feel. Here's a hint : drop 1 of your 2 black jersey tops, 1 of the 2 crinkle cotton shirts and all 3 of your sleeveless shirts. Thats 5 down, a couple more heart-wrenching eliminations and you are good to go. :)

Also, I'd take only 2 cardigans. So eliminate the cardigan that goes with the fewest outfits and eliminate your other tops/bottoms based on that.

Good luck!

OK - sit down, put your feet up, exhale, have a glass of wine and RELAX. :)

Re dressy outfits -- I always make do w/ a pair of black slacks (ONE PAIR) or a black skirt and 2 different tops, a lacy camisole, a jacket and a pashmina or scarf. Byt mixing/matching this one bottom w/ the tops I have 8 unique dress up outfits.

So it is really easy -- honest.

And don't leave the rain jacket home if you are going to the Tattoo -- if it rains that night you must have something to cover up w/ . . . . .

You people are terrific!
Okay, I've eliminated one pair of slacks, leaving me with 2 light cotton pairs and one black dressy pair. I'm taking the rain jacket for the Tattoo. I'm eliminating one, maybe both of the crinkle cotton shirts, and 2 out of the 3 sleeveless tops (just in case of a heat wave!), and one black jersey top. Now, I'm going to work on the cardigans and skirts, and go back to sorting through the tops tomorrow.
The idea of eliminating one or two things a day from now on makes sense. It's less painful that way, and once I put some things back in my closet, they'll be out of my sight.
I feel rather shallow worrying about clothes in the face of my husband's death in March, the bombings this month in London, and the state of the world in general. On the other hand, it might be a good sign for me emotionally that I even care about what I wear, because I haven't cared for so long.
I just need to get realistic, and you people are truly helping me. I've made great progress already!
The glass of wine sounds like a good idea....

I think I can really relate to this, as I am packing for a 3-week trip in August after dealing with a long illness and death of family member myself and I think my usual packing instincts are just "off" because of all the stress I've been through in the past three months. My daughter pronounced me "crazy as a loon" this past weekend when I told her I was " practice packing" for our trip in August, but I knew I was going to do it wrong if I didn't make a few pre-trip attempts, even though after all these years I should be a pro at this.
Face it - you've got way too much.Fifteen tops needs to be pared down to about six. Four pants needs to be cut down to two or three.One casual skirt and one dressy one is all you need. One jacket.
Here's what I'm packing for a three-week trip that will involve some totally slumming it in the countryside in the Dordogne as well as visits to friends in Provence and three days in Lyon:

three pairs of capris: one denim, one blue cotton, one multicolored cotton

six tops, all cotton, half sleeveless, half short-sleeved

two skirts, both cotton, one white, one blue

One cotton sleeveless dress with blue and white rose print

one cotton jacket that matches skirts and capris

2 bathing suits

One pair of light blue Easy Spirit incredibly comfortable flats and one pair of Keds backless light blue sneakers (for gardening in the Dordogne and going to market).

All that said, I do have clothes at my house in the Dordogne that I can pull on for working in the garden and stuff like that, but that's not the sort of stuff a typical tourist would need anyway, so I discount it.

Hope this helps.

Maureen, it is not shallow worrying about clothes;it's human nature or feminine nature. You're doing just fine.

Have an absolutely fantastic trip!

I'm finally getting there--but it's late and I think I'll face this again tomorrow.
You people have all been so wonderful. I expected to be made fun of for being so ridiculous in the amount of clothing I laid out, but instead, everybody has given me specific suggestions, and it's working.
I think StCirq is so right--that our instincts can be off when we go through stressful situations. I have eliminated quite a few items already, and I hope to keep at it until I've got it right. Then I can really enjoy the trip itself.

Dear Maureen, I know exactly what you are going through, honest I do. I can't explain it but let me tell you this. When my DH and I would go to Italy for 2 months I would take one suitcase and one carryone.

After my DH died suddenly of a heart attack my world seemed to spin around me. Several months later I went to Italy thanks to friends in Italy that insisted that I do so. I packed two enourmous suitcases full of clothes! Why I don't know. What was I thinking of? But in reading your thread I knew exactly what you are going through.

Those two suitcases plus a carryon were terrible to lug around. I must have been out of my mind.

You have been given some very good advice here and I can't really add anything to it except to say after overpacking that one time that I have since then packed the way I use to and that is with the theory that if I have enough for one week I have enough for as many weeks as I will be travelling.

One can hand wash some things in the sink and let them drip dry. Or one can take clothes to the cleaners to be dry cleaned or laundered. Or one can buy something while on the trip if they absolutely need it.

Maybe the problem is after losing ones spouse the mental feeling is that one needs a lot of "stuff" to feel more secure?

You are obviously eliminating "stuff", unnecessary clothes. Continue to dear one. Travelling on ones own without having a spouse helping with luggage makes it more important then ever to only pack the basics so that you can personally handle your suitcase and carryon.

My very best wishes to you for a beautiful trip. I know it will do you a world of good.

LoveItaly, you have brought tears to my eyes with your insight. I do think my packing confusion has everything to do with the fact that this is the first trip I am taking in 32 years without my husband. I'm so relieved that other people are helping me see things more clearly. I thank all of you from the bottom of my heart.
I took some clothing out last night, and today, I plan to work on it again, maybe even downgrading to the smaller size suitcase I took to Spain (even though I bought a brand new mid-size suitcase for this trip. In red, no less). I have arthritis, and lifting can be painful, so I have that added incentive to get this packing right.
What I do know is that I will enjoy the trip more if I am better organized, if the suitcase is lighter, and if I have less choices of outfits to confuse me when I am getting dressed. I'll let you know if I attain my goal...

If it's any comfort to you Maureen, I always fixate on packing and my wardrobe before a big trip. It's happened often enough I recognize the symptoms (I believe I focus on this rather than worry about trip logistics, getting generally nervous, etc.) and think it's OK.

That said... for a constructive tip to whittle things down I suggest looking for things that have duplicate function. You don't need 4 of any one type article IMO. I would leave behind 1-2 skirts, at least 1 cardigan, eliminate blouses that have the same general cut, color, or purpose.

Another tip that I have found helpful it to weigh your suitcase once it is fully packed (stand on your bathroom scale and pick it up, subtract your own weight). That has proved a good reality check for me.

Good luck! Safe travels!!

I can't really add to the great advice here, but I'm a true believer in Heaven and I can't help but imagine your DH looking down over you and maybe chuckling a bit (not that I think your post is silly in any way).

He'll be with you and keep you going with loving thoughts on this trip. My Mom went through the same thing when my Dad died.

Have a wonderful trip Maureen and blessings for you!

Just an update to those of you who have been helping me with my packing problem. I haven't made huge progress, but I have done some pruning. I'm down to 3 slacks, 3 skirts, and 10 tops. That doesn't sound like a big difference--but it's already 1 less pair of slacks, 1 less skirt, and 5 less tops, which makes quite a little pile when you see them altogether. If I can eliminate four more tops, and one cardigan, I should be good to go. I'm already thinking of leaving out one of my dressy tops, and one of the tees (because it's white and will soil quicker than the colored ones). If I do that, I only need to get rid of two more and I'll be about where I should be. Even at the amount I have now, it still fits in my smaller suitcase, although a bit snugly. That would not be a problem, however, because I will be throwing away the underwear and nightgowns as I go--although anything I buy will take up that extra space in the end.
All of you have been fabulous in helping me get this far in this project, and in setting goals for my final packing. You will never know how much I appreciate the practical help, as well as the overall encouragement I've received as I prepare for this trip. The people on this forum are amazing, and I wish each and every one of you Happy Traveling.
PS: When I recover from my jet lag, I'll try to write a trip report and let you know how it all turned out...

You are insane!
But you have given us a hearty laugh this mosquito filled humidity laden Minnesota evening.

thank you

Maureen:

Because of this thread I went back over the contents of my suitcase this evening and pruned even more from it (though I then added one piece - a top I love that had been in the wash when I "packed" the first time).
I really think some simple tasks that we are all familiar with and good at become difficult when we are faced with long illnesses and death. I know in the past few months I've lost car keys, forgotten to show up for lunch with friends, missed paying a bill, stupid stuff that even I, the consummate multi-tasker, usually never do. It's as though the brain is so overloaded with tasks and emotions that things we truly know how to do in our sleep become arduous for the first time.
Don't sweat it. It sounds as though you've made great progress. If it turns out you overpack, just throw some things out. Sounds cavalier, but after the death of a loved one, throwing a few things away is no big deal.
The important thing is you (we) are GOING to Europe. Presumably, you (we) will find some healing strength in that, as well as just some of the simple pleasures of a vacation with no strings. I know I will.

Yes, I know I'm insane. I admitted to my craziness in my first posting! I'm glad it was good for a laugh, though.
As StCirq has reminded me (us) though, the important thing is that I am going back to Europe. Up till this week, that was what really mattered to me. If you had asked me two weeks ago about the packing, I would have told you it was the least of my concerns. I was excited about seeing the Royal Shakespeare Company in Stratford, and re-visiting the Tower and Westminster Abbey, doing a few London Walks tours, and fulfilling my dream of attending the Military Tattoo in Edinburgh. I think it was just last-minute jitters-- the reality that I am doing this--than made the packing such an issue. My DH would be laughing his head off. StCirq is so right--when you deal with life and death issues, a few items of clothing don't really mean anything. So, now I'm getting my priorities back where they should be and focusing on the wonders of travel. Thanks for bearing with me...in all of my craziness.

Hi Maureen,

You have been given some wonderful advice, and I will admit that tears did fill my eyes as you and LoveItaly remarked on your DH's passing. How can you possibly pack or even think straight after you have been through such an incredible loss. I am sorry.

I can only offer this little tidbit of small "packing" advice myself, as to not duplicate the good wise words you have already received:
"Remove anything from your suitcase that is uncomfortable or wrinkles easily!"

I think you are very brave.

"See" you when you check back in with us upon your return.

Your friend, Tiff

>:D<

Dear Maureen, my very best wishes to you for a beautiful trip. May every day be filled with happiness and new pleasures. I will so look forward to your trip report. And I am so proud of you for eliminating unnecessary items from your luggage. This will help you enjoy your time in G.B.

And St. Cirq, I guess we are all basically the same because when I read your post about the missed lunch appointment, the unpaid bill etc. I had to smile to myself as I too went through the same thing. It got a bit scary. But that too passed.

Hugs to both of you!

I am keeping an eye on the latest news from London as I write this. I guess this is not meant to be a stress-less trip. That's ironic, because I specifically chose Britain for my first trip abroad after losing my husband because I did not want the additional stress of dealing with unfamiliar places and foreign languages this time around. I know that I am like StCirq and LoveItaly in that I am not functioning at full speed yet. Little did I know that our trip would also end up being a defiant personal statement against terrorism!
I never did explain why I was traveling again so soon. When my husband retired, our goal (other than sending our daughter to college) was to travel, specifically a trip each year. We managed to do that (Spain, England and France, Mexico, Hawaii, and Cuba) before he became ill. Our daughter became as much of a travel addict as we were, and is double majoring in English and Medieval Studies, with a minor in History, specifically because of interests sparked during our travels (cathedrals at Chartres, Salisbury, and Canterbury; Hastings Battlefield, and especially, a love of Shakespeare).
Anyway, within a few weeks of losing my husband, I told my daughter that I thought we should take a mother-daughter trip this summer, as a healing, sharing experience. We knew it would be somewhat bittersweet, as the last time we traveled to London, we were all together. But we also knew for certain that my DH would encourage us, actually insist, to pick up our lives again.
It has been a good decision, and I'm embarrassed that I had this last-minute panic about something as silly as packing. In the past, I would have been happy to have two changes of clothes as long as I could go on a trip! I think I have things back in perspective now.
I really appreciate the insights from people who have been through this experience. Grief is a strange thing--you think you are so strong one day, and then something very unexpected sets you off again. I am determined that life go on, but it is certainly different than it was before. I find it amazing that part of my healing process has come not only from planning a trip, but through this travel forum, because its members have been so supportive.

Hang in there. You are going to have a terrific time.... I travel internationally all the time on business, and - as you have said - I know how to pack. Alll that knowledge completely leaves my brain when I am going on vacation. So I lay all the clothes I think I'm taking out on a spare bed, about a week in advance. Then I go in every night and pull things off. The last night I'm doing this, I remember that I'll probably want to buy a little something while I'm there that will need to fit in the suitcase - and I get it back down to reasonable.... Enjoy yourself - when I have a little glass of wine, it helps me eliminate more clothes......

Hugs to all of you. MaureenGP, Janis said what I would have written about packing. My very best to you, Joan

The "rule of thumb" I have heard and try (not always sucessfully) is - lay out everything you think you might want to pack, then put half of it back. Then look at each item left and say, do I REALLY need this? I also pick a color for my trip and make sure all my clothes either are or match that color. In my case it's usually blue because that happens to be my favorite. Keep reminding yourself you can wash or buy things at your destination if necessary - you're going to Europe, not Antartica!
Have fun, both with your packing and on your trip.

Dear MaureenGP.

I, too, have been known to purchase new items for a trip and want to bring all of them with me.

Here is what works for me: I call it the fashion show. I'd suggest gathering a dear friend or two and opening a bottle of wine first. Then, try on your favorite outfits for the trip for your friend(s). See if they can help you select the most PERFECT and FABULOUS of the great clothes that you have, because I'm sure you want to look your best.

I often find that when I try on six or so tops with the same pants, a few naturaly eliminate themselves by not being quite a cute as I had hoped. It also helps if you leave the tags on...I have been known to return a few of those must-haves, which turn into extra cash for the trip!

Hope this is of help.

MaureenGP,
Even though I myself have never gone through the sad experience you faced, I was really moved by this thread. I also had good laughs because I go through this ordeal of packing everytime I am about to go on a trip. I just know it is going to be like this this coming October. I am supposed to go to a conference in Bangkok, with stopovers in Lisbon (on the way down) and Munich (on the way back), each of these cities with very different kinds of weather. I always try to pack light, but find myself carrying a whole of stuff I don't really wear. Janis, St,Cirq, and others here, I will definetly need your help when it is time for me to pack!
Have a wonderful trip, Maureen (just stay away from the tube).

Cecilia from Brazil

Sending you a hug Maureen! I am sympathetic about the packing situation.
I am a very nervous traveler and my many lists for packing and my extreme overplanning are really more about my attempt to control a situation that I really have no control over. LoveItaly is very perceptive.

I am hoping that your trip will be wonderful! I loved Edinburgh, and London as well. I wish that I was going back.

I have gotten a few things at ridicculous prices as well. Really cute summer clothes and shoes. I am leaving for Chicago, for business, on Saturday. I have done well and restrained myself from overpacking. I have almost taken out my bigger suitcase several times. I keep stopping my self though.

I just have my 18" and a back-pack and that's it! For a week.


Safe travels. Post a trip report when you get back. Especially about beautiful Edinburgh. :) Have fun!

Hi Maureen,
As a UK resident here's some info about our weather. It sometimes feels as if you can have all four seasons in one day and Edinburgh can be a cold and wet place even during the summer - I was a student there for four years (many moons ago) and I've visited and indeed taken part in the Tattoo. We used to go when I was a child and we always wrapped up warm, often taking a travel rug. Now you don't want to be packing one of those so take the modern girl's best friend, the pashmina. In fact take two one to sit on and one to wrap around you. If you choose different colours you can use them to ring the changes with your evening outfits and they really do fold up small for packing. I always take one in my hand luggage in case the aircon on the plane is set too cool for my liking or I want something soft to rest my head on. Definitely take a waterproof coat and suitable shoes (in addition to your sandals and evenining shoes) and if you don't like wet hair a hat too - much better than an umbrella in the wind. Dare I suggest a thermal vest/camisole (I think your idea of a vest and mine might be different - I'm talking underwear)? For evenings out remember not everyone will be dressed up for the theatre but you'll want to look lovely as you're on holiday so maybe some fashion jewellry could jazz up a black top and make it look a bit different. Bless you for coming over and I hope you only need your new summer outfits but in a UK summer I'd always be prepared for a little bit of cold (especially on the castle esplanade at night for the Tattoo) and some rain. I'd take your rain jacket and a dressier jacket (you'll feel better looking smarter when it's dry) and use scarves and jewellry to make a smaller number of tops feel different. Hope this helps as it's my first ever post.

Hello Maureen. I wish you a safe trip. I know you have been through a terribly difficult time and there is no way to evaluate the many manifestations of that stress. I am no use on many issues, but one place I really shine is packing. I travel frequently on business and pleasure. All my male companions are astonished that I never pack more than a large purse (Coach bag almost twenty years old and still perfect for the purpose) and one carryon suitcase. Here is what works for me. I carry one pair of black casual pants (Talbots bistretch washable, no iron, $78.), one pair of black slacks knit (these are handwashable and wear like iron) made by Cyrus (priced under $100.) These are very nice pants and work well for evenings out or business wear. I also have a black Cyrus skirt, costs less than the pants, but also washable. Then I pack three or four cute Cyrus sweaters (no, I swear I don't work for them). Two silk scarves, and one pashmina. I wear a black raincoat. I truly never need anything else for dinners out, shopping, theatre, or just plain sightseeing. Add to that the fact that all of these items are very comfortable. Shoes: One pair of French Sole flats (bought on Sloane St. London) and one pair of black Mary Jane Naots. That's it!

My heart goes with you. May the trip bring you joy.

cmc - where do you find Cyrus clothing? I'm normally a packing Nazi but I think you trump me!

Just came home and checked to find all these new messages--so heartfelt and encouraging. I especially appreciate the advice from Scotslass on how to dress for the Tattoo. I guess that rain jacket will stay in my luggage after all! And I suppose I'd better put the loafers back in. That means I have to get really tough on myself with those tops. By the way, I went back to TJMaxx today and bought a different suitcase---lighter than that spiffy red one I bought two weeks ago (which I will return). I figured it would be better to start out with a lighter suitcase, as every bit of weight will count when I'm manuevering those trains, subways, and airports. I am getting so excited about this trip. My daughter and I are looking forward to theater in London, our first visit to Windsor Castle, and communing with Shakespeare on the banks of the Avon. We're even going to try haggis!

Great thinking on the suitcase front, Maureen. It'll be so much easier to pull off the carousel if it's lighter. Hope you have a great trip.

Aggiemom, I buy Cyrus clothing at Seasons in Mt. Airy, NC. Nordstroms carries some of their items. Their line is perfect for travel. Everything I have bought in that line is machine or hand washable. That they were reasonably priced seals the deal.

Hurray on the suitcase Maureen. Very good move. And thanks for the Cyrus brand mention by cmcfong. This is one of the nicest threads I've participated in, in quite awhile. Only best wishes for successful adventurous enjoyable trips upcoming, for each of you traveling soon!

Just checked in again, and agree that this is such a nice thread, as everybody has given both practical advice and great encouragement. As a relative newscomer to this forum, I feel a little timid sometimes. But this thread has been such a good experience for me. I really think people who like to travel are special, as they have a desire to see the world and meet its people. That indicates a generosity of spirit...
I notice a thread of condolences today about a regular forum member who has passed away. The many responses and genuine sympathy have really touched my heart, even though I do not recall reading any of his posts personally. You seem to have created quite a close-knit community here.
Again, I thank all of you for every bit of advice you have given me. It has helped immensely--I'm almost ready to leave for London, much lighter in both my packing and in my heart. PS: I won't let those bombers get me down either!

Dear Maureen: Best wishes for a wonderful trip with your daughter. Threads like this one, and people like you, are the reason that this forum is such a success. Warmest wishes for safe travels. Bon voyage! ((#))

Dear Maureen,
Warmest wishes from Australia. In 5 days I leave with my husband for an 11 week trip to Europe. I will now appreciate him a lot more.

My proposed outfits are sitting on my dressing table and have been there for 3 days now. My husband was horrified at the amount of tops. I should know better as this is not our first trip - but it is really difficult to not take some things because you say to yourself 'what if?'. Anyway I am trying my best. The biggest problem for me is that I love reading and must have lots of paperbacks with me. I throw them away when I have finished with them and fill the space they took with pottery, gifts etc. Trouble is I am a fast reader and paperbacks in English are just too expensive in Europe. I just can't get to sleep at night without a relaxing read. What a stupid problem to have!

The helpful advice you have been given will make me firmer with myself when it comes to not taking things.

Have a lovely trip.

jofrommelbourne, don't give up on the paperbacks! I know how necessary these are when traveling. But in most cities, you can find a second-hand bookshop that has English books. For example, the Paperback Exchange in Florence is excellent.

If you haven't got any books, consider picking up magazines from a kiosk. The Economist is excellent because it takes so long to read thoroughly.

Maureen, I think dsm22 made a good point when she/he talked about "control". By obsessing about packing, you're seeking to control one aspect of the trip, one aspect of your life that *is* controllable. After dealing with illness and death in your personal life (along with the recent events in London), that's pretty natural. I think you could stand to delete more tops. I wear one and pack five. Someone mentioned carrying some fashion jewelry to dress up for evenings. You could also buy a fun piece of jewelry while on the trip! I'm glad you and your daughter will be spending some joyful time in a place you love. In light of recent events, it is even more important to "soldier on" and gain what joy you can in life. Carpe Diem!