Retail therapy

One of my favourite parts of going travelling is the shopping beforehand. That is if you've saved up for it. I have spent a fortune this week, but I feel very prepared for every eventuality now. Well, a lot of eventualities, anyway!

Amongst others:

• brand new shiny rucksack (Osprey Arial, with waist band that can be moulded to your shape)
• padlocked cage for the rucksack, waterproof cover for the rucksack (thank you G), lots more padlocks (nobody's going to nick my dirty underwear)
• sun tan lotion and after sun (my god, I had forgotten how expensive this stuff is)
• thermal top and trousers (hot-pink top is particularly sexy...)
• silk sleeping bag liner (actually a gift from mum, my own wee bit of travel luxury)
• dry wash, chlorine water purifiers, travel washing line, universal sink plug
• address book (beloved filofax - aka life-support system - has to stay at home for this one, so this is the stream-lined version)
• multiple convertible combats (basically walking trousers that zip off at two levels - three outfits in one!)
• South East Asia Lonely Planet (early birthday/christmas present fromwee bro, pre-scribbled with his take on where I should visit)
• Essential toiletries in essential toiletry cases (part of my early birthday/christmas present from wee sis, she knows me too well!)

And the list goes on a fair bit more. It has been so much fun! And all ably supported by the lovely Scottish Arts Council staff (thanks guys) and my long-suffering family (I can be the most indecisive person in the world at the most inappropriate of times).