Shopping!!

85 days to go, and I am trying to get everything ready well in advance. I want to keep from having to spend money at the last minute...I'd rather have it in my pocket!

Last week I bought a good pair of Keens walking sandals (I've wanted a pair for about 4 and a half years), and today I bought a pair of cargo pants, a sun hat, and a messenger bag to use instead of a purse.  I bought it at Spreadshirt, where you can design your own T-shirts, bags, hats, etc. How cool! I made my bag absolutely unique by putting the web address of my blog on it! Now no one can say it's theirs, because my picture is on the blog.  It also has a pretty design on it. I'll post pictures when everything comes in.

I packed some of the things I am taking in my small suitcase, just to have them put away. When the time comes, I'll re-pack everything just right.

Oh, I will also be taking some mini trips between now and August 11, so I will blog them here, as well.

Be good!

Sitting in the DMV

So yesterday I spent almost an hour sitting in the DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) waiting to get my new driver's license. I came in, showed the lady my ID, took a number and sat. And sat. And sat. I forgot to take a book, and so I spent my time looking at people, checking my number over and over to see if it was on the flashing board yet, and reading the signs in the room again and again.

What I learned: Make sure you take a book with you to the DMV, or at least your iPod.

Eventually (35 minutes later) they called my number. I walked up to counter #1 and told the guy I needed to update my address and get a new license. He reminded me that I could just update it in the system for free, but I told him that the Indian Consulate would probably not accept my license with the new address written on the back in Sharpie®, so I'd pay the $10.00 for a new one. I gave him my ticket and my license, as well as my new address. I had to look in the vision tester and read the letters, name the colors and numbers, and see the flashing lights. I passed the test. He asked me if I wanted to remain an organ donor. I said, "Yes" and wrote him a check for $10.00. As he took it I asked if he wanted to see my license, which was funny because he already had it. Ha ha, I'm hilarious.

After taking my money, he handed me my ticket and old license and told me to go take a seat. Within a few minutes, the picture guy called my name. I went over there, smiled a dorky smile, and the guy took my picture. A minute later, a paper copy of my license, complete with new address and dorky picture, came out of the machine and he handed it to me. It's my temporary license, and my regular one should come within 30 days.  When it arrives, I'll send all my info to the consulate for my visa. I can't wait! I am now one step closer to India.

Be good!