Pack mule: Another pre-flight-from-L.A. check list

Packing is an artform and it is clear that I am not artist of this sort. While my packing ability has evolved over the years, I still find myself wondering if I could somehow do it better. I have resigned myself to knowing that I could have been squeezed more clothing into my suitcases and to the very likely scenario that I have left some crucial item in wardrobe behind in Montecito Heights, my cozy hill outside downtown Los Angeles.

I have slowly assembled items randomly across my bedroom floor over the last two days. To the outsider observer, I'm sure it wouldn't make much sense. It hasn't to me. Only in the past few hours have I achieved any critical mass when it comes to assembling my wardrobe.

Do I take the blue Hawai'i towel or the one that looks like a rainbow? Which is it, gay or Hawaiian? How much underwear to take? A delicate subject, for sure, to raise here but a critical one for any lengthy stay abroad. My best friend thinks the more, the better, when it comes to undergarments; a clean undergarment inspires confidence and avoids humiliating washing episodes over hotel sinks. I settle for a two-week supply.

I've also packed food. Those who know me well also know my allergies: no wheat, potatoes, corn and milk products. There's more, but these stand out. It's not easy living without these foods, but I make do. Like many others with gluten and other allergies, I have persevered and found ways to eat around my allergies, like a gastronomic work-around. For this trip, I am bringing along all things rice: rice milk, brown rice pasta, brown rice tortillas and rice cakes. It would seem a little sad at first glance, but I am perfectly happy with my choices. and the snacks that accompany them. I don't foresee myself having many instances where food is unacceptable, but fortune favors those with rice cakes and almond butter as a backup meal.

I'm think I'm ready to go. One last review of my packing list.

Alternative food options? Check. Clothing?  Almost a check. A few items are still rolling around in the dryer. Toiletries? Yup. Vitamins and youth-enhancing supplements? Of course. Vanity intact? Check. DVDs? Check: I'm bringing Slings and Arrows, Strangers with Candy, Young Frankenstein, among other TV series and movies.  Books? Check: one sci fi and a David Sedaris book. Have I forgotten something that I will recall as soon as we cross the border? Check.