Packing, who me?? Noooo

I hate packing to begin with, but this is crazy.  How does one pack for 3 months of the unknown?!  Of course there are foreseeable things like school supplies and toiletries, but then there arises the question of what toiletries will it just be easier to buy there instead of shipping overseas making my bags that 16 oz heavier.   Also, what happens when it rains? I have no room for rain boots! I've decided that one suitcase is just going to be filled with shoes and I'll fit everything else into the other suitcase.  Probably not.  

I guess the best tactic is to sit down, suck it up, and just pack. Lists are also helpful.  Thankfully I have this great notepad with a checklist of the "Basics", "Miscellaneous", "Clothes", and "Hygiene".  I highly recommend something like this if you're like me and can't stay focused on getting one thing done at a time.  

I also need to gather together special items to remind me of my friends and family back home.  I'm expecting to love Florence, but I know I'll miss everyone home too, so pictures will be coming with me.  Ok, I'm off to actually put some things in my bags. Wish me luck! 

"Bring half of what you think you need, and twice as much money."