Thursday, April 20, 2006

I'm Going to Ireland!

If my passport shows up, that is.

Work is going okay, nothing crazy is going on that I have to coordinate or stay late to finish. I am waiting for the weekend to painstakingly pack my clothes. I am determined not to take too much. I think I will do okay with that, as I will remind myself that I need to leave room for things I want to buy and bring home. Yes, threatening and intimidating (myself) about not being able to bring home new purchases works every time. I am such a badass.

I just checked the TSA's website for limitations on knitting needles and read conflicting information. Basically, knitting needles are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage. BUT! There is also a note that says, "...there is the possibility that the needles can be perceived as a possible weapon by the TSA screener. TSA screeners have the authority to determine if an item could be used as a weapon and may not allow said item to pass through security. TSA recommends...circular needles less than 31 inches in total length...needles made of plastic or bamboo (not metal)...it is recommended that you carry a self addressed envelope so that you can mail your tools back to yourself as opposed to surrendering them at the security check point..."

Oh, my. So, can I bring my needles or not? I have plastic circular needle set, which collectively would equal more than 31 inches, but does a 32-year old graphic designer from Portland with weak upper body strength merit as a threat with my nifty plastic set of knitting needles? I don't think so, but who knows what goes on in the minds of a TSA agent? It goes on further to say, "as a precautionary measure it is recommended that you carry a crochet hook with yarn to save the work you have already done in case your knitting tools are surrendered at the checkpoint."

Gee, thanks! Because that's not inconvenient or ridiculous at all!

Okay, okay, safety for the masses over a little inconvenience for one. All right. But, still... If you knew me, you would not be scared of my knitting needle wielding self. The only one I am capable of intimidating is myself, what with those masterful threats of an overcrowded suitcase.

Other than the TSA bum rushing my show, I'm otherwise very excited to go on vacation. We're going to see some great places, drink beer and whiskey, relax, and bring coolness to the words: "We're from America!" again. We will represent. Except that I really don't want to mention where I'm from, just in case somebody is pissed at us, collectively. I am a wimp that way.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Just remember, it's not whether the person carrying the item could be perceived as a threat, it's solely the item itself. Someone else on board could take said items from you.