Hunter Welly Socks...Check
On a recent Tuesday evening I was packing my bags for a weekend trip to the coast. I planned on visiting family for some sightseeing, and to enjoy some of the outdoor activities we always participated in. Now, you may be wondering why I was packing my bags on Tuesday when I wasn't scheduled to depart until Friday. I do things this way in order to make sure I don't forget to pack any essential items.
A few years ago, I was engaged in a conversation with a well-travelled friend who was offering me some tips and tricks he had learned from years of business travel. One thing he told me was that he always packs his bags 3 to 4 days before departure. By living out of a suitcase for several days he is able to recognize items he forgot to pack. When he leaves home on the scheduled day, he is confident that he has everything he needs. I thought this was a wonderful idea and decided to employ it myself.
So there I was, packing my bags on Tuesday night. Two pairs of pants... check. Extra shirts... check. Hunter Welly Socks... check. After about 20 minutes of careful consideration and deliberate packing I was sure that I had forgotten nothing. When Friday arrived I loaded my bags into the car and off I went. An hour later I found myself at the family cottage while the rest of my siblings arrived one by one.
The next day, one of my older brothers suggested we take a trek on a local nature trail. Although it was cold and rainy the weather had never prevented us going before and it wasn't about to stop us now. We gathered in the kitchen where we slowly dressed while telling jokes and having a good time. My sister thought it appropriate to use the occasion to make light of the fact that whenever I travelled forgot something. I responded by insisting this time would be different. Of course, my siblings did not believe me.
With a smug confidence in my packing routine, I quickly grabbed my jacket, gloves, and Hunter Welly Socks. But as I reached the door, I suddenly realized that once again I had fouled things up. Embarrassed as could be, I had to admit that I had forgotten my rubber boots. Ouch. Not having need of them at home, they didn't make it to my suitcase and thus, they didn't come with me. Once again, the master packer had left something essential at home.
So here's a lesson learned: no matter how far in advance I pack my bags I will still probably forget something. No more proud boasting from this guy.