T-minus 9 hrs

So I thought it would be a great idea to stay up all night so that a) I can prove to people/myself that I can actually pull an all-nighter, and b) so I can hopefully sleep on the plane. My flight leaves from milwaukee at noon, then we stop in minneapolis, and then on to LA before our final destination of new zealand!! It's almost 3am now, and I'm realizing I might regret this when everyone in our group is getting to know eachother on the 13 hr flight from LA to Auckland....and i'll be out cold. On another note, I really don't think I'll ever learn how to pack and travel lightly, so if you want tips on how to do it, i'm definitely not the person to ask. I had every intention of only having to check one piece of luggage, and then have my carry on. Well I quickly realized that wasn't going to happen, and soon enough, I went from the original plan of 2 pieces of luggage to 4. (I'm hoping my extremely full backpack will count as my "personal item") I still don't think it's quite hit me yet that I'm going to be on the other side of the world in a day...which is probably a good thing, otherwise I wouldn't be this relaxed. There really isn't any need to be that nervous I've decided. I'm going to a developed country, where english is the main language, I'm starting out with a group of Americans, and I'll only be gone for about 4 and a half months. (which is only a month longer than summer break). NBD, right? ha, my mom is going to wonder what that stands for. Ok, I said I'd keep these short, and at this point i'm just babbling for the sake of trying to stay awake. So on that note, peace out America!! Much love and see you all in time for Summerfest!!! :D