Stone Soup by Jan Eliot for March 09, 2013

Went to Paris on a school trip back in the mid-70s. One of my classmates had actually packed four different pairs of pajamas for a seven day trip, in addition to three pairs of jeans and a few sweatshirts. The French teacher went to her house and repacked everything vital into one suitcase, getting rid of the excess – this was all before the extra baggage charge, but the teacher did not want to wait at the airport for two bags for one person. That was my experience in packing lightly.

Looks trim and slim – the luggage that is!

As a red blooded woman, I still hope she getsto go shopping. Not a “break the bank” spree,let’s get serious…Wally’s only an accountant.But she’s in PARIS. Let her walk the shops. Maybe1 dress. You gotta think..this is a housewife, anddevoted mother. It’s the trip of a lifetime, forJoan. All she and Wally do is work and takecare of kids. I for one think she deserves this.

@gkidWally is an Insurance Agent; he WON the trip for selling enough policies!

Ever heard of Mix and Match? Lot’s of outfits.

she should buy an outfit and some great accessories !!

I would want to tour Paris. When my husband and I went for a short vacation was at a fun place and not too much hotel time. We went for entertainment.

I don’t see any mention of underwear. That wouldn’t take up much room in Joan’s suitcase. Or Wally’s. And there’d still be room for one nice item of clothing, and two or three inexpensive pieces. Sounds like she won’t need pyjamas, though. :)

Paris – go off season, walk everywhere you possibly can, stop in cafes and small restaurants outside of tourist areas, learn a few words of French and talk to people (they will switch to English but will be impressed you bothered), hit the major spots you’re interested in on a city tour – saves time and you can always go back if you want to, get out of town for an afternoon if the weather is nice. The trains are easy and convenient. Have fun – it’s a vacation, not a job.

She doesn’t need a dress, maybe a blouse or a gorgeous scarf. Then a piece of jewelry. Other than that she will have to buy souvenirs for everyone.

Yes, don’t bother packing a lot. There is noone there who would be impressed by your wardrobe or who you’ll even see again. When my lover and I travel I take only enough for a change, with a pretty silk nightgown to put on in the morning for breakfast. Some places we had that on a balcony.

I agree, to buy a pretty blouse or scarf and possible accessories would be nice (and practical) as long as they are top quality. Personally, I don’t care about leaving the continent, tho’ my new Scottish son-in-law would like me to go there. If I’m with my love, it doesn’t matter where I am – always happy!

Don’t forget a pair of shorts Joan.

@Sneaky Bucher

For a woman, packing for Hawaii should be easy..a pair of shorts, 2 swimsuits, a skirt which doubles as a cover up, 1 pretty blouse, and a cardigan sweater. Oh and 1 pair of shoes since you will wear your sandals on the plane.No need for coats or heavy clothing.

RELAX, everyone! They’re over 40 – they HAVE to come up for air now and then.Joan WILL get her trip to the Eiffel Tower – and her run through the shops.Sheesh…

Oh come on. They’re consenting adults and they’ve obviously been up at night making Luci. What’s the big deal? Your parents did the deed, too, or you wouldn’t be here.