After leaving Iowa, I spent a few days in Omaha with my parents, who have been very supportive of my travel plans. I packed up what remained of my possessions in six Rubbermaid containers (to be put into storage) and put everything I’d need for the next two years in my backpack. Total weight: 37 lbs (15.8kg). (Actually, to tell the you the truth, I’m cheating a bit, I’m also sending a box of clothes and a few books to myself in Hong Kong via the US Postal Service.) My last night with my family, we ironically went out to eat at a Chinese restaurant (which, I would later realize was a blessing, since I wouldn’t be able to find anything that resembles American Chinese food in China. Who knew!?).

Early the next morning, with what was the first hint of nervousness thus far, I boarded the first of what will be many planes. This one headed to San Francisco for a few days, then onto Hong Kong. After liftoff, I was greeted by a pleasant napkin with my early morning orange juice. Apparently United Airlines knows a thing or two about foreshadowing.