I REALLY apologize for the lack of posts; life has been a bit hectic this past weekend. You would think that I am capable of packing quickly by now, but on Sunday evening I found myself haphazardly running around, gathering items.
I am currently crashing in Irvine (where I attended university, but where I no longer live) for the week, and haven’t had much time to write. I thought I would, but the first day back at school was more time-consuming than I’d predicted.
How I packed my things (in many tote bags/bags)… not very efficient for carrying, but good for a small car.
How does it feel to be living out of a suitcase again? (Although technically I’m living out of four tote bags and some purses.) I had been settled into a routine at home for more or less the last three months, so this change in my schedule has definitely shaken things up even after only a day. I am adjusting to having a lot with me, but not everything; to having more freedom to roam and more things to do, but with limits as I don’t have a car; to tread a bit cautiously and not leave things lying about in this apartment, as I am a guest. I am adjusting again to long days (I was out from 9am-7pm yesterday) and having to fully plan the next day so that I can take everything I need with me. My shoulder muscle aches badly from carrying a big, heavy tote all day, plus two heavy cameras — but that’s how it is when you don’t have the time for or convenience of stopping back home to switch out what you need, so either you have to rely on very little, or you have to shoulder the weight and carry on. My whole body aches from sleeping on a sofa that is not as comfy as I’d remembered from the last time. I can safely say I’ll be having body aches for the whole week.
I am not complaining about any of this; I am merely describing the experience of doing this again. Although I haven’t traveled far this time, it’s all there. Always having to sort through your things because you don’t know where anything is when everything is packed. Never feeling quite comfortable staying in a place that isn’t your own. Do I enjoy this feeling of displacement? I can’t say with certainty, but it’s always nice to have a change of scenery.
Jennifer
