Gearing up for my Japan trip in about 13 days, I’m reminded of the first trip I took to Japan. After an overnight flight into Japan and a groggy connection into Hiroshima, we landed in the late afternoon and hustled our way to our lodging. Having traveled for a good 15+ hours and crossed the international date line to say I was out of sorts would be an understatement. After dropping off luggage we decided we needed to eat something, so we walked to the 7-11 near us. I remember looking through the unfamiliar foods and picking out what looked palatable for my nervous traveling tummy. I can’t remember exactly but I probably got an egg salad sandwich (something which is likely to appear frequently on this blog in the next few weeks).

When I went to check out, though, the overwhelm hit me. I was in an unfamiliar country with an unfamiliar language (mostly) and I was suddenly very uncomfortable. I distinctly remember the cashier speaking quickly, likely running through my order, the prices and whether I wanted a bag. I don’t know what I expected but the unfamiliar environment just hit me at that moment and I was suddenly scared I wasn’t ready for this experience.

Needless to say, I certainly got through that awkward situation (more for him witnessing my panic), and made it back to our place unscathed. What I realize now that I needed was a shower and a good long rest. Enamored with Plants Vs. Zombies in the infotainment center on the airplane, I hadn’t slept much at all and no amount of excitement for a dream come true could cure exhaustion.

I think back to this time before I head out to Japan in 11 short days for the third time in my life, the first time I will be there alone.

More than anything I hope this blog will keep me connected when feelings like this creep up on me.