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Luggage ID

Trying to identify your bag if it gets lost can be tricky. Let’s see…it’s black, has wheels, is about this size, and has two zippers. Hmm…wonder how many bags that describes?

Next time before you give your bag to the airline, take a couple of photos with your cell phone. Try to get as many distinguishing shots as you can. It may help the airline track it down.

Don’t forget to have a tag with your name and a phone number on it. Most do not suggest adding your address unless it’s a business address. And…don’t lose your baggage claim ticket.

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Carry On Snacks

I know you love those small bags of peanuts and pretzels the airlines give. But, do you want a little more of a snack than that? Here are some ideas you can take in your carry on bag or purse.

Dried fruit in a resealable bag doesn’t take up much room. Add nuts or popcorn in another bag and eat them together. Don’t pack them in the same bag as the dried fruit tends to make the nuts and popcorn soggy. Not so good!

You can also take fresh fruit that’s easy to eat. Grapes, apples, or oranges work well. Cut up the apples and oranges before you get on the plane!

Make your own peanut butter or almond butter crackers and pack them in their own bag. You could do the same with small rice cakes.

Pack some string cheese and whole grain tortilla chips.

Don’t be like the guy next to me on the last flight…his sandwich made the whole plane smell like grilled onions!

Happy flying.

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More Airport Security Line Tips

Part two of security line tips:

It’s a good idea to check with your airline and find out the recommended arrival time. International times will be different than domestic. They may even vary from airline to airline.

Wear shoes you can slip on and off easily, if possible. Same goes for jackets and sweaters.

Remember to remove anything metal and place it in the bin to go through the scanner. I’m always amazed at people who forget they have on a belt or left keys in their pockets. Having said that, I wear a sterling silver bracelet most days. I’ve worn it for years…literally years. Through countless airport scanners. It never sets off the scanner. On the last trip home from San Diego…the scanner beeped. I had to remove it and I felt like I just committed a faux pas. I asked the TSA agent if this was a new scanner and she said yes…lesson learned. I know now to remove my bracelet!

The TSA says to leave gifts unwrapped. Apparently they figure we all use kryptonite wrapping paper that the x-ray machines can’t see through. Not sure. Bottom line…leave the gifts unwrapped!

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Airport Security Line Tips

It doesn’t matter whether you are flying to Rome or to Denver…you still need to go through airport security. Being prepared makes a difference to me. It may save you time and hassle as well.

Get organized in your carry on luggage. The TSA says if you pack your carry on suitcase in layers it speeds up the process for their viewing agents. They don’t have to wonder what they are looking at in your luggage. I prefer to roll my clothes, but I still have my suitcase organized.

You know you’re going to need your boarding pass and ID. Have it ready BEFORE you arrive at the agent checking these items. Nothing worse than being behind someone who is searching and searching for their ID that dropped into the abyss of their bag.

Have your 3 ounce containers in a clear zip top bag before you get to the security line. Know where you put it in your carry on bag. Standing in line is not the time to discover your bottles are 6 ounces or to wonder where you put them in the bag.

More later…

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Jessup Cellars

Fun and educational time last night at Jessup Cellars.

Tasted 2012 Sauvignon Blanc, 2011 Pinot, 2009 Table for Four, and 2009 Juel. Listened to Sandor Katz talk about fermentation from his latest book, Art of Fermentation. This is all part of the TasteMaker Series. Sunset Magazine food editor Margo True and Sandor did an amazing job of bringing the subject of fermentation to foods we eat and drink.

Afterwards, we sampled food from the Cultured Pickle, Bar Tartine, and Shed. Art was provided by Cynthia Carey, Michael O’Brient, and Mikki McClure.

Wonderful way to spend an evening…

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Packing Tip

When you want to pack a necklace or bracelet that is relatively thin and often tangles in your jewelry case, try threading each one through a drinking straw. You can easily secure the clasp and the straw will fit nicely in your carry on bag.

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Practical Travel Tips

Perhaps you really want to pack your exfoliating scrub the next time you travel, but don’t have room. No worries. Use one or two of the sugar packets from your favorite coffee shop and mix them with just a drop or two of lotion. Rub the mixture into your hands or feet. Make sure you rinse well with water and pat dry. Voila…softer skin.