It’s almost unbelievable that the time has arrived—off to Japan in only THREE MORE DAYS!

I’m very used to travel, packing, getting everything setup to go. The difference this time is that I’m going to be gone for a month and a half. Surprisingly, I’m finding it difficult to fit everything into one suitcase, a backpack and my computer briefcase. I know that I ALWAYS end up taking something I don’t need (usually books), but when you’re going to be gone for such an extended time, that becomes a bit more difficult to determine. I have already pruned out some of the things I’d put on my “to take” pile, but there’s still a lot. I especially can’t believe how much electronics/computer gear I’ve got with me, though I’ve essentially limited it to one plastic box.

Clothing is relatively easy. I’m taking as much as will fit in the empty spaces after all the other junk’s in. Since it’s going to be hot and humid, I’m relying on mostly t-shirts and casual stuff. It’s gonna be hard to figure which shoes to take because they’re always so bulky. At least I won’t be needing any suits and dress clothing (though I am taking a nice shirt and pair of trousers for important occasions).

And then, of course, I’m already thinking ahead to coming home. I know I’ll be purchasing things there that I’ll need to bring back with me, but I think that Japan Post will appreciate me as a customer when I ship home books, extra clothing and souvenirs. I’ll hopefully end up tossing some stuff too.