Pre-Departure Stress

Maybe it’s just me, but before any big event or move, I find new things to stress out about. I can hear my friends and family chuckling to themselves as they read this thinking that I stress even when I don’t have anything going on, and it’s true. Either way, this “life transition” is really testing my sand (see Gangs of New York for sand reference). What’s crazy, though, is that when I feel like I’m going to explode with nerves, stress and anxiety, I keep getting these waves of peace. I’m not sure if it’s of divine origin, or it’s a result of my growth as a person, but I am finding that I have been handling all of the unknowns pretty well.

To help keep me organized (and lessen my stress even more), I thought I’d list my packing list and some of the things that I have to do before I leave. I also hope that it will help remind of other things that I’m forgetting! If you can think of anything I’m leaving out, don’t hesitate to comment. 

Things I still need to do:

-          Call BECU

-          Go shopping for sunglasses/vision glasses, belt, light clothing, new hat, etc.

-          Clean car thoroughly

-          Pack

-          Get vaccinations if possible

-          Print directions to interview

-          Print ticket/confirmations

-          Visit grandparents

-          Figure out phones

-          Finish Chinese phrase book

-          Help Jamie finish packing house

Things to pack:

-          Clothes, underoos, socks, ties, shoes, hats, one jacket, sunglasses, etc.

-          Personal hygiene items

-          Glasses

-          Work documentation stuff like transcripts, degree, etc.

-          Meds, vitamins, ibuprofen, tums, pepto, some first aid stuff, etc.

-          Biking stuff

-          Passport/Visa

-          Money stuffs

-          Laptop, case, charger

-          iPod

-          Gifts

-          Teaching material

-          Chinese study material

-          Books

-          Any home décor and/or anything Jamie needs me to bring

-          Snacks

Phew, I think that is it! 7 days and counting!

P.S. Here is a photo of the plane I’ll be flying on. I’ve got a really dorky friend who blogs about planes (http://www.airlinereporter.com/) and I’m considering doing a guest blog about my flying experience with EVA. :)