Leaving for Chi-Town

Well, I finally left work on time! (Thanks to a perfectly scheduled hair appointment.) After my trim, I immediately did some laundry went shopping so I'd have something to pack for Chicago. I am attending the Healthy Living Summit and am really excited, albeit a bit nervous!

Chicago is really hot right now (much like Omaha). Events for the weekend include walking around the city, an all-day conference inside (in air conditioning), yoga, running, and a cocktail party. This means I have many types of clothing to bring. Even though I'm flying Southwest so I can check bags for free, I didn't want to go overboard. After all, I still have to lug the suitcase from the airport to the hotel by myself. I tried my best to think about each outfit and pack mix and match pieces. After much trying on, laying out, hanging up, and putting back, I finally had set aside everything that I wanted to pack. Would you like to see? (In my mind you all shouted "Yes, please!", so here you go!)

Here we have:

3 dressy tops, 2 casual tops, 1 tank, 1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of yoga pants, a cocktail dress, jewelry, a clutch,  and various electronic support.

2 thin sweaters for layering, running clothes, pjs, unmentionables (that I just mentioned...), socks, running shoes, dress shoes, walking shoes (I only use my running shoes for running.)

To get this all in my suitcase, I started with the bulky stuff / stuff that won't get wrinkled:

Shoes, pants, running clothes, & pjs

Then I laid a nylon bag over the first layer and topped it with the more delicate items:

Thin sweaters & tops

Lastly, I added the cocktail dress and other non-clothing items:

I also prepared by laying out my clothes for my flight the next day. I was so comfortable traveling in a cotton dress when we went to Boston that I decided to do it again.

I wore a tank underneath and brought along a wrap, in case I got cold. I decided on some comfy flats that would be easy to slip on/off at security checkpoints.

In the morning, all I had to do was eat breakfast and head out the door! Katie was able to get off work a little early to drive me.

I had an English muffin with butter, Greek yogurt with blueberries, and iced coffee. I packed a PB&J (and an apple) for the plane.

Ok, all, time for a weekend away...catch you in Chi-town!