3, Thy Name Is Preparation

3 days 'til my flight to Paris.  Preparation, preparation, preparation... My mantra as of late.  I have lists swarming around me: Lists of what I need to pack, lists of what I have left to do, lists of lists I need to make!  All this planning has a certain chaos and therapy that's exhausting and enlivening.  My impatience is on the rise -like every ticking second is a second too long!  My recent discoveries:

1. Numbers Game (aka A-fashion-obsessed-OCD-girl's worst nightmare)
-What is the proper ratio of tops to bottoms?
I was relieved to find out that all my worrying about my own tendency to over pack was premature.  By nature, I picked out neutral tops (black and white tanks/camisoles/button down shirts, denim shirt, random cobalt blue shirt) which matched perfectly and interchangeably with my statement bottoms (mint jeans, regular jeans, coral skirt, taupe shorts, blue skirt) and layers (white sweater, black blazer, military jacket).  I began mixing and matching and taking photos to give myself an idea of how many outfit possibilities I was in fact looking at... The result was fantastic! I will be set, and while in France and Romania, I'll be able to gorge myself guilt-free knowing that my luggage can hold it!

2. Making A Smooth Transition (aka Converter vs. Adapter)
- In short, wtf?
Being an unseasoned overseas traveler, discussion of outlet dilemmas was all Greek to me.  I understand the difference in voltage 110 vs. 220, but I was uncertain whether a converter or adapter was the better fit for me.  An adapter fits European outlets with an outlet on the opposite side for your US plug.  A converter is an adapter plus a little box with a switch which can convert up (110 to 220) or convert down (220 to 110).  I've decided a converter is necessary -if only to save myself from the humiliation and horror of frying one of my host family's outlets.  Will buy tomorrow.  Will rely on knowledgable salesperson to direct me.

3. Comfy Chic (it's exactly what you think)
- What the hell do I wear on the plane?
Yes, yes, I will be sitting for over 9 hrs, BUT it will be the first thing I'm wearing in Paris.  I realize in the grand scheme of my trip, it doesn't matter, but I'm not to be reasoned with!  I'm a girly girl, and I'm determined to find that holy grail outfit... Maybe it will come to me in a vision while I sleep.  Dream big, Em.

While these next 3 days will be full of family, friends, and restless excitement, at least I know the universe has my back...