My bag is checked, the Ryder Report is wrapped, the crew at the office has a stockpile of items to post, and now it’s only a matter of time–and not very much of that–until we depart.

Packing became a bit of an adventure. With our packed itinerary, it seems like a couple wardrobe changes might be needed each day (from riding clothes to racetrack to dinner, for example), so every square inch of my bag is stuffed. At 43 lb, I have room for seven pounds worth of stuff!

During our quick visit to my parents yesterday, I was reminded of a trip they took to Wales a few years ago—mom came home with a new saddle! I don’t think I have space for that, although I might be tempted–we’ll have a couple of hours to explore the tradeshow at the Dublin Horse Show. I’m willing to bet that Duncan will get a souvenir or two.

One conundrum I encountered was riding apparel. Both riding sites provide boots and helmets. But what sort of boots? If tall English boots, breeches will be best. If short paddock boots, then half-chaps are fine–but do they have those too? I ended up bringing both breeches and half-chaps so we’ll see how I did