One month from today I will be in Tokyo, most likely heading to Nikko via bullet train to enjoy the serenity and beauty of the natural hot springs there.  Even though I’m super excited to see Japan, to see Susan (!), and to experience the whole journey, the pre-trip time is priceless and can be as exciting as the actual trip!  The unknown and the anticipation of visiting another land is thrilling for me.  It’s a rush and is my addiction.  I love the organizing part, the planning, the reading-up on the place, the flying, all of it.  But with that being said I am not thrilled about this crazy hair-brained idea I have of packing in a backpack.  After the third unsuccessful dry run I wonder why I am insisting with myself to back in a small bag that I carry on my back!?  What’s my point?  I’m going to keep trying but each time I try I need to remove about 50% of the stuff I want to take.  We’ll see what happens on this…