50 lbs. My suitcase can only weigh 50 lbs!!!

I have a huge problem. My suitcase is 15 pounds over weight. What do I take out? I start with the umbrella. It is the rainy season, but I can always buy one. Next take out full size shower gel, shampoo, conditioner. Twelve ounce bottles add up fast. I will only pack travel sizes and try to estimate how much I will need for 19 days. Next clothes! I need to reduce the number of outfits. I narrow it down to basics I can wear multiple times. Black pants are in on this trip!

I stuffed more into my carry on. It is really full. That could be a problem at the airport.

Finally my suitcase is just at 50 pounds by my scales. I hope it will be ok on the airport scale.

Tomorrow is the day. Good byes will be said tonight. I leave for the airport at 2:30 a.m. We want to make sure we have plenty of time.

I am so excited and now getting a little nervous. I am heading into an unknown adventure. What experiences are ahead?

Packing, organizing, and packing some more

Finalizing details. Tomorrow tie up loose ends and organize clothes to pack. I am not nervous at all. Everything is going smoothly and I am leaving in 4 days!!!

I must think about the speech. I could write it on the airplane as my son suggested. I keep going to back to why I was asked to give the speech. I was told the selection committee was impressed with my application and felt I was the right person to represent the entire group. I am so humbled by the request. A small town teacher to represent United States educators. What a huge accomplishment in my career.

The count down begins!

Only 1 week before I leave. All the things I need to think about. How much money to take? Do the boys have copies of the medical insurance card? I need to start packing. How will I keep in touch with everyone at home? What time is it in Tokyo? Good thing I bought the alarm clock that displays time at home and the time where you are staying. It will really be important so I don't try to call in the middle of the night.

I need to start writing my speech for the welcome reception. What am I going to say? How can I represent 159 people I have never met?