One day I came home from school and found my roommate relaxed on the couch with a tiny little creature bundled in her arms. Hoping it was just a stuffed animal, I soon realized it was a live kitten. Not an avid fan of cats, I reminded her of our landlord’s policy of no pets in the condo. She insisted that she would keep her kitten in her room, or out on the patio while she was out. I reluctantly gave in and tolerated the kitten’s presence, but made it known that I couldn’t stand to have a cat living in the condo.
Looking back on this unfavorable living situation, I laugh now to realize that years have passed, and only was I reminded of that cat when I came across some cat jewelry at a store showcase. When I viewed the various designs of cat jewelry in necklaces, pendants, and bracelets, I thought of my cat lover roommate. Could we have made a compromise, giving the cat a new home, and getting my roommate some cat jewelry? If I could have gone back to that situation, I would have convinced my roommate that cat jewelry is a much better alternative than taking care of a real one. Here is why.
Cat jewelry doesn’t give you allergies: Some people are just allergic to cats, or they say they are because it’s a relevant excuse to get rid of them. Some may be more partial to other animals like dogs. Especially if you’re in a roommate situation, having cats in the home is not accommodating if others are allergic. Be considerate of your roommates and resort to your love for cats by wearing jewelry.
Cat jewelry doesn’t require maintenance: Compared to most animals, cats are pretty low maintenance when it comes to taking care of them. However, when you are very busy, an extra duty to tend to your cat can be tiresome. With cat jewelry, the only maintenance appreciated, but not required, is to have a jewelry box to store all of your jewels. For college students, your living situation is mobile, which doesn’t give your cat a stable home.
Cat jewelry is a pretty accessory: Celebrating your love for cats can be displayed in various designs of necklaces, bracelets, pendants, earrings and rings. Wearing your cat jewelry is an expression of your love for the animal. In public places where you are prohibited from having animals around, you won’t be condoned for sporting around your cat accessories. For this reason, freely express your love for cats and make a fashion statement with your cat jewelry.
Comparing cats to cat jewelry might be like comparing apples to oranges- you can’t really compare the pros and cons, they are just different. But when it comes to the consideration of other people, like roommates, opt for cat jewelry to avoid the disagreements and confrontation.
Careful consideration should be given to several factors, such as:
1.) How long do you plan to travel?
2.) Do you intend to pack heavy items (like books or sports equipment)?
3.) Are you short in stature?
4.) Do you know the weight/size restrictions of your travel carrier?
5.) Do you intend to transport or purchase any fragile items?
Luggage can be categorized into three main groups: hard-shell, soft-sided, and semi-soft.
No matter which group you choose from, ensure that your bags:
1.) Have lockable zippers and compartments
2.) Are waterproof
3.) Are durable
4.) Are in good repair
Some carriers will refuse to accept your luggage if it looks like it will disintegrate during your trip.
Hard-shell suitcases are ideal if you intend to carry fragile items; but this type of luggage can be very heavy. Be kind to your back and ensure that all of your suitcases have wheels. Try to find luggage with metal-reinforced corners to protect it from damage during baggage handling.
Soft-sided luggage is lightweight - but you won't get the best protection for fragile souvenir treasures. If you decide on soft-sided baggage, make sure that you cram each suitcase as full as possible to avoid shifting and wrinkling of your clothing.
Semi-soft baggage is constructed with a hard frame (like hard-shell suitcases). Strong fabric is then placed over the frame. The frame provides more protection than soft-sided luggage, with the added advantage of being lighter than hard-shell offerings.
If you are a frequent business traveller, you might want to consider purchasing a good quality suit or garment bag. Try to locate one with multiple pockets and tough zippers. With careful planning, you should be able to pack enough clothing for up to a week.
A single carry-on, rucksack, or duffel bag is great for a weekend getaway. However, since August 10, 2006, airline restrictions will force you to place liquids, gels, and pastes into another checked bag.
Your luggage should appear distinctive. Having the same beige or black baggage as everyone else makes it difficult to locate your belongings on luggage carousels. You can transform basic black into bold and beautiful with decals, fabric paint, colorful tape wrapped around handles, etc. Your imagination is the only limit!
Short passengers should avoid huge suitcases that are difficult to lug around. Smaller suitcases and baggage with retractable wheels and telescoping handles will make life on the road considerably easier. If you can't find suitable bags with wheels and telescoping handles, purchase a baggage caddy.
Colorful duffel bags are a favorite with most children. If you do an online search for 'duffel bags kids' or something similar, you will find thousands of websites.
After you have packed all your bags, try lugging them around the block the same way you will be carrying them through the airport, railway terminal, or bus station. If you can only walk a block or two, your luggage is too heavy. Repack!
Do you plan to do a lot of souvenir shopping? Squeeze in an extra soft-sided bag - or nest two hard shell suitcases, one inside the other. When you return, you will have an additional bag - so be sure that you don't exceed your carrier's restrictions. Remember, also, that charter flights may have different restrictions than regular flights.
Paying attention to your individual needs and personality when you choose your luggage will make your travel much more enjoyable.
?Copyright Kathy Steinemann: This article is free to publish only if this copyright notice, the byline, and the author's note below (with active links) are included.
Both Stephanie Tuia & Kathy Steinemann are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Stephanie Tuia has sinced written about articles on various topics from Diamonds, Jewelry. Stephanie TuiaTo find out how you can get Voom through the Dish Network, contact them toll-free at 1-866-556-0842 or visit