T: -8 days

Today I finally started getting things in order to prepare for the trip.  I have gone through the list many times in my head and so I finally went to walmart and made my first round of purchases.  I came home and set out the suitcases I plan on using.  The limit for the checked bags is about 62 inches in the 3 dimensions and it must weigh less than 50 lbs.  The larger bag i'm using is about 60 to 61 inches.  I hope they don't count the handle or I'll be over.

I've got a pretty good idea of what I want to take, but once i get it all packed i'll revise it and pack less i'm sure.  I was wondering what I would be getting into when I get over there.  I googled "Things to do in Shanghai" and found that tripadvisor.com has a top 20 list.  The number one thing on the list is a guided shopping tour.  All the reviews are great.  The prices aren't listed on the website, but it's looking pretty cool.  Something I'd really like to do; I'll post pricing information when I know more about the tour.

Also, people have started to give me their Skype account information.  Please let me know your skype stuff or add me; jbiberstine.  Really creative, right?  Look forward to seeing you all via webcam.  I am also distributing my phone number to people while I'll be in China.

I would rather not post the phone number here on the blog because, it's the internet.  If you'd like my number, be sure to sign up for the mailing list.  I'll also post it on facebook.

Thanks,
JBiber

PS - If you've got any tips on how to pack two large bags for 5 months of living abroad -- share your thoughts in the comments!