First Impresions and all that...

Hey!
I know I don't have any readers as of now but, I'm really excited about sharing with everyone. I am moving overseas in a couple months and would KILL right now to have something that would help with all the anticipation, like a Teen's Guide to moving overseas with the Military, or something like that; however, since I cannot find one, I've decided to make an attempt to help kids in my situation or get advice from people who have gone through the same ordeals. My plan is to blog weekly (or more) before I move and when I get to Japan. I know that every experience is different but there are many similarites that I think it would be able to help someone.
Today my family and I went to apply for passports and none to soon, a few hints:
Get them EARLY, the sooner the better. They supposedly take 3-4 weeks to arrive in the mail, plus (if you are moving with the military) you need to get additional passports. So SOONER IS BETTER THAN LATER! Don't wait till the last minute!
Also, your family should work out what they are going to do about cell phones in Forgein Countries. I know in Japan, incoming calls are free and the phones have lots of features, but I've been told they are in *gasp* Japanese. So look into that as well.
If you are moving to a country with different languages, like Germany, Italy, Japan, etc. Drop out of Spanish (since that's what EVERYONE takes) and start learning the language of the land. Or if you don't want to quit taking whatever class you currently are taking, buy the Rosetta Stone or a program like it. You don't want to feel totally bewildered when you get to your destination so plan ahead. (Also, you know how people make fun of Forgein tourists, you will pretty much be one, so be prepared!)

I have a pretty firm belief that EVERYONE should experiance life outside of their native country. You don't want to be ignorant to the world and different societal functions! I hate moving, to be honest, I hate leaving friends, making a new life, going to a new school, making new friends, finding a new chrurch, the WHOLE shebang. But I do know that EVERY time I make a move, I learn so much and develop a greater understanding of myself, the value of family and different cultures. Each time you move you shouldn't wallow (as I have done so many times) but take a chance to meet new people and keep in touch with those you love. You have NO idea what kind of (dare I say) kindred spirits you may find, just by stepping outside your front door. Those with nomadic lifestyles learn SO much more than those who never leave their small town. Carpe Diem friends!

I close this deeply hoping that you will find friends with whom you can talk, (sorry if that sounds stuffy, I HATE prepositions at the ends of sentences, I'm kind of a geek like that!) sights you can see and life to experience. I truely hope you'll email me with anything, I'm open to new friends. (ESPECIALLY if you live in Japan!!) And I hope you keep reading,
Thanks all,
K.

The World is a book, and those who do not travel read only a page. ~St. Augustine