Bare Necessities

It's the day before I leave for London, and I am learning the difficulty of trying to "pack light." If you had to move to a far away place for a year, what one thing would you take that you could not live without? For me, that one thing is–besides art history books, of course–the vinatge pair of black cowboy boots I bought at a thrift store last week. Scruffed around the edges, these boots seemed rather plain and dull...until I tried them on, and what joy! Hitting slightly below the knee and cupping my toes just right, they stomped with character and confidense on my feet. I have joked about arriving in England with a cowboy hat and firm "Hey, Ya'll," but I think these boots will do just fine.

This past week, I have enjoyed high quality time with the family as well as the opportunity to say good-bye to very dear friends. I appreciate all the encouraging sentiments as I travel to another culture.

Cheerio!