Pack Rat

I nailed it

• Greetings from London, which is in its spring finery—tulips busting out, magpies chattering, young people in hot pants and tube tops. Of course, it’s freezing, with a sharp wind that doesn’t rest. But everything looks fresh and pretty, and I’m so happy to be here.

I mentioned that I’m starting a new book, and that’s why I’m here. The book is about the fascinating life of a little-known building in Hampstead. I’m not trying to be coy, but it’s too early to say much more. I just did my first dive into the research and it’s been intriguing. Lucky me, I was able to sublet an apartment in the building I’m writing about, so the main purpose of this trip was to get settled. I head home tomorrow, but I’ll be back and forth this year. I love London, so having a reason to come often is a real bonus. I remember when I started working on The Orchid Thief and rued the fact that it required many trips to Florida, which is not my favorite place. This is a nice turn of events.

I packed like a champion for this one-week trip, thank you very much. The weather reports were promising cold and rain, and while the rain never delivered (yay!) it was really cold. I felt a little foolish packing a down vest and a wintery jacket, but I wore them both everyday and praised Weatherbug for the warning. (For those following along at home, the winter jacket I took is my beloved car coat from Marfa Stance. A big splurge, to be sure, but I’ve worn the heck out of it and it’s the perfect weight almost always. Also, it’s easy to travel with because it’s pretty squishable. Definitely a good investment.)