Before You Go Cross Country...

...There are 3 things you need to know. Learn them. Accept them. Move forward. 

1. You will lose things.   This can encompass many variations on loss: something is lost, or stolen, due to absentmindedness, forgetfulness, or relying on others. The quick fix: Keep copies, and don't bring anything you can't live without.

2. You will get lost.   And that's okay. Some of the best memories and funniest stories come from tales of getting lost. Organization is key, but that can only take you so far. Spontaneity is a big part of the excitement of travel.

3. You will get tired.   No matter how jazzed up you are about your trip, after several days - or maybe at some point every day - you will get tired. You are still excited about your trip, but that level of energy and excitement is unsustainable in the long run. As quickly as you may recognize this statement to be fact now, it is surprising how often people forget or choose not to plan "days off." Don't skip out on these days off. You won't just power through it and come out on top. If you skip the rest you need one day, it will come back later. And although you might be in the car most of the day, that still saps energy! The concentration needed to stay between two lines on a road, to avoid traffic and bad drivers... these things are mentally exhausting. Bottom line: There will come a time when you will need a vacation from your vacation. Plan for it.

So excited to be in Pisa!

RECAP

1. You will lose things. 
2. You will get lost. 
3. You will get tired. 

WHAT TO DO

1. Get organized. 
2. Stay organized. 
3. Plan days off.