It only took 2 days to realize I made a big packing boo-boo when coming to a dig. Sure, if I were just traveling to some city, I’d have more than enough stuff to wear and be ready physically. When coming to a dig, I was 100% unprepared.
Shoes – I only brought two pairs of socks because I figured I could just wear my chacos most of the time, and my keens when it is nasty or cold out. However, using a pick-axe and wearing sandals, even though they are sturdy, is probably not a good idea. I have to wear my Keens every day – and thus had to buy 2 more pairs of socks from the store.
Labor – When I think of digging I usually picture people with brushes lightly removing dust around bones, etc. From the point above, you might notice I am using a pick-axe daily. The dig is a lot more laborious than I imagined – but I do enjoy feeling completely worn out afterwards.
Dirt – So, I quickly realized that picking dry dirt is very tough. We end up watering down our trench in order to dig easier, meaning we are completely muddy by the end of the day.
Clothes – I’m definitely wearing the same two clean shirts on a rotating schedule. I feel extremely silly, and even sillier when meeting my well-dressed compadres out for drinks. I’m looking around for some cheap shirts to mix it all up – yes, still looking. If you saw the style on this island, you’d be at a loss, too! (Aladdin pants = muy hippy)
Weather – I really thought it would be cooler weather in October, so my other clean shirt is long-sleeved. Unfortunately, (or fortunately – yay never ending summer!), the weather has been hot on most days, except for when it rains. Even then, it clears up and gets hot again in the afternoon. The rain has been more than normal here as well. Mallorca, the neighboring island, has been having huge flooding issues.
So, traveling carry-on was great for my mental sanity – I do hear that SpanAir is NOTORIOUS for losing your luggage – but it was not so great when trying to pack for this sort of activity. I definitely should have brought my Ariel and risked checking it so I’d be more comfortable now 
Oh well – you live, you learn.
Hey darlin! I can’t believe all of your exciting adventures. It sounds absolutely wonderful and I cannot wait to hear more about it. Everything here is nuts and moving has been a pain, but it will all be worth it!
Can’t wait to hear more!