Monday, August 27, 2012

Travel stuff happens

 

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So what is that you ask?  Well, this booboo on my trusty backpack happened immediately upon arrival in Berlin.  I mean, after about 25 years of traveling many, many miles, why would I expect it to make yet ONE MORE trip?  Unraveling fabric…not good.  Oy…what to do???  Panic?  No, of course not.  This was the first day of a three week trip.  Stuff happens when you travel.

I checked out backpacks everywhere I could find one, to no avail.  Either not the right configuration and/or price.  Man, some were quite pricey and STILL not right.  I was regretting not bringing my rolling backpack, but it did no good to think about that.  I needed a replacement…soon. 

Plan B.  We do those well. 

MM figured the backpack still had some life in it, probably envisioning some duct tape in its future.  Thanks, honey, but no thanks!  That puppy was loaded with heavy stuff—iPad, Kindle, chargers, hat, water bottle, toiletries, jacket…good stuff!  I didn’t want anything falling out!!!

I spied a Nike store across from the Berlin train station and figured I could find a sturdy and reasonably priced backpack there.  And so I did.

Meet Blue:

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Two outside mesh pockets for holding water bottles (a must!), three separate zippered compartments; one has slots inside for pens; one other has a half pouch to hold a computer/iPad, etc. inside; a good sturdy bottom, and the nifty nylon is supposed to withstand rain, important since there are $$$ electronics going inside.  I would add some small loops down the outside seams to clip a flashlight or keys onto, along with a strap crosswise across the lower back (to secure it onto the handle of a suitcase)…but no one asked me for my opinion on design.  I just know what works for me.  Or not.  And we didn’t have time to do much shopping, so this was the best fit that I could find on short notice.  D fer done.

Anyway, this little number worked pretty well and got me home.

Stuff happens when traveling.  There is no need to get upset…just figure out how to fix whatever needs fixing…and adjust.  Never let *stuff* spoil a vacation!  Rule #1.

Sometimes mishaps make for interesting memories, like the time my rolling suitcase threw a wheel in Munich…at the beginning of a trip. 

Stuff happens.  Adjust.  Smile…and go on.

And speaking of, Brian’s flight home got changed, so he is now getting in later tonight than anticipated.  Bugger.  Prayers for safe travel much appreciated!  A mom’s job is never done, right?

Sunny and cool this morning in Mayberry.  Life is good, y’all!

6 comments:

Barb said...

You'd need 500mph duct tape for traveling! hahaha!

Like I always say, it's good to have a plan, just be prepared to change it at any time! I'm sure Brain will arrive safely but adding that to today's prayer list!

It's cooler here today... and getting very cloudy. Me thinks Isaac is looming...

Enjoy your cool day in Mayberry! big hugs xoxo

ivana said...

Ciao Sandy!

You had to change it, simply, better in Berlin, or not?

Brian arrives safe and sound, sure!

Have a great week home!

Big hugs!

Sandee said...

I know you both pretty well so I'm not surprised that you adjusted to this little setback quickly. That's just the way you roll. Love Blue and I'm sure he's serve you well.

Have a terrific day honey. Big hugs from chilly California. :)

Anonymous said...

The new backpack is cute, hopefully it proves to be just as sturdy as the old one.

Joy said...

Extra traveling prayers for Brian!

Empress Bee (of the high sea) said...

gosh i think you got your money's worth out of the old one but too bad it happened anyway!

hugs, bee
xoxoxoxoxo