Word count: 59594 | Since last entry: 14 | Days until retirement: 38

Today was my last day of work until mid-September. We leave for Japan in two days. I have to pack. I have spent much of this evening packing my computer — making sure I have all the files I’ll need to survive on the road for three weeks with little or no Internet access.

The worst part is going to be living without the phone, or the “magic rock” as Kate has been calling it. I’ve gotten so used to having email, LiveJournal, and most especially Google Maps available at all times that it’s going to be rather like losing a hand. Especially in Japan, where being lost is the national sport. We’ll survive.

Ganbatte!