We have TEN Days left until we leave.  We have many tasks to accomplish, not least of which is packing up our bags.  I’ve started, but it is difficult.

I’ve been thinking though, that packing is like writing, and writing like packing.  First step, think about what the situation will be and what you need for it.  Then make a list, for packing, or a sort of outline for writing.  Next, put out everything you think you want to pack and look at it.  Then put about half of that back in the closets or drawers.  For writing, free write your thoughts,  do a “save as” document, and delete roughly half of it.

Next step, think some more.  How many pairs of slacks, jeans, shorts, do I really need for the duration of the trip?  Really?   Put some more away.  Imagine a day in the life, and think about each item you use, from your toothbrush, don’t forget that, to your hat for the sun and other weather, down to your socks and hiking boots.   Do you need anything new or specific, better get that now.   In the writing process, do more research, ask yourself, “Am I going on and on and on til the reader is lost?”

OK, now go back to the drawers and make some exchanges, the lighter weight slacks instead of the heavier ones, or vice versa.  Think about dressing up or down, and do you have some clothes for cleaning the apartment?   In the writing project, are you being true to the story, or are you leaving out the dirty work?  Do you want to take a necklace, or not?  How much do you want to dress up, literally, or in your writing?

Start putting stuff in the suitcase, the carry on bag, and the purse.  Get out the scales.  Weigh everything.   Cut, drop and/or add some more.  In writing, review, revise, rewrite.   Count the words.   Ask for advice from other travelers, or other writers, or editors.

Finally the day will come, when ready or not, it’s time to go.  What you have is what you’ll take.  No more decisions, just go.  In writing, the deadline approaches.  The editor is not looking for perfection, but for something on a certain day.

So, that’s what I’m thinking about today.  How about you?