Packing involves the collation and trying on of winter ski clothes, some of which haven't seen the light of day for 6 years, from a number of below ground storage places.

At 27 degrees C outside it's a little warm for trying on fleeces, down filled garments, underlayers, overlayers, ski jackets and the like .. all of which I fancy I'll need now Isobel has reminded me that "It'll be COLD in Canada at Christmas". Given that Canadian's are used to sub-zero temperatures when we say "COLD" in this context, we mean, if you're lucky and it's hot you get -5... if you're less fortunate it's quite a bit colder than this. But before it's packed it has to be tested... will it still fit? Does it merit a space in my rapidly filling suitcase? That's the problem with packing for warmth; 4 garments in and the case is full.

I'm still searching for my black ski pants. I know I had them in March 2012 when I went to England in case I hit a freezing Easter but I've hunted through every stored suitcase, all my winter clothes hiddey places and they cannot be found. I'm planning to ask Mike if he has any idea where it is but finding things isn't his strong point..

Meanwhile, whilst the hunt goes on, I'm charging up the batteries for my boot warmers (yes I'm a ski wimp, I can't function without electronics to keep my tootsies bearable.) It's essential this equipment is in full working order before we go.

I don't think this packing is going to be a one day job...

Perhaps it'll be easier tomorrow. I do have a slight handicap at present. Another aspect of my ski preparation is to make sure that 5 hours of daily exercise doesn't phase me - so I've been working hard to improve my fitness. This weekend alone; I started at 6am by cycling to my running club meet point, then ran 12 km before cycling home. On Sunday we all did a 27km day walk around Sydney's bridges (this in aid of the Cancer Council). Then Monday I met a lady who wanted to incorporate some exercises into the morning 5km dog walk so we did four sets of lunges and tricep dips. Consequently every glove and beanie that I pack pulls on various muscles already in a state of post load fatigue.

Yep I'm taking the preparation seriously!