Things we wish we knew before

Well as we get ready to leave for overseas, sometimes there are things I wish I knew earlier. I don't know who reading this will be leaving soon, but I wanted to share some things I realize now in no particular order.

1. I have too much stuff. We have given away almost 100 books and 100 pieces of clothing. As things started going away, I felt freed and cleaner.
2. If you want to buy life insurance at most insurance companies, you cannot be living out of the country for two years. We found this out two weeks before departure. So if you are planning on leaving the country in 2+ years, check into a policy now.
3. There is no such thing as notarizing a marriage certificate. Second, to authenticate your marriage certificate, the county clerk that signed it must still be in office. Otherwise, you need to get a new copy.
4. A rib X-ray is not the same as a chest X-ray.
5. Get your shots done early because some of them take a month. We just finished our last shots last week.
6. You are not supposed to feel in control. The other day, I had a freak out moment in LA because I couldn't find my running shoes. So Alvin and I looked through all our belongings (6 suitcases, 3 boxes). After looking through everything, we finally found it. Yet during the search, I felt like I lost all control of my life. As I was running later, all of a sudden it hit me. I am not supposed to feel like I am in control.
7. I don't know how I will feel emotionally in an hour. Therefore, carry a pack of tissues.

I know there are things we still are going to learn before we leave. And definitely going to learn a lot overseas. Will try to keep you in the loop for more tips.