Pre-packing...

Pre-packing isn't really a concept I've ever understood... traditionally being a procrastinator, but as it usually is, in getting ready for this trip, preparedness, or the extreme lack thereof seems to be the theme. Stakes being higher on this one, flights being longer, culture being vastly different, I'm feeling it more than usual. Lists help me feel more accountable. Thanks to a former project manager, I'll employ the ever popular color-coded done/not done method.

Expired passport -- renewed, check.
Planning flights -- travel agent for international, domestic by me, all booked, check.
Dual entry visa application -- handled by Marie, David's fab assistant, check.
Broken camera -- bought a new one, check.
Preparing my team at work for 12 work days without me -- in progress, hope to finish, pending check.
Luggage restrictions, carry on only, 44lbs or less, so I can buy things along my trip -- hence the need to pre-pack. Let's hope for a check on this one by Sunday night...
Also, started a blog, to publish my thoughts & photos along the way, let's see how it works out --done it, check.

Next steps:

• find & post an automated count down.
• start new picasa account to host the photos.
• post itinerary.
• begin the pre-pack process.
• send the blog link to those who may care and others who may not.

for now, this will have to do:
Less than 4 days until CA, and 6 days until China!