Japan?????

Sunshinegirl

I'm also trying to figure out if I should just get rid of everything (furnishings, etc.) with the exception of items I really need, like clothes and the obvious or put stuff in storage for 2.5 years. We're looking at getting me over there before Christmas, so there is a lot to do.

i would go without hesitation. i would very much like to live in a few other coutries. i never considered japan, but i am always up for an adventure! :D

personally, unless you have some heirloom type of stuff.... i would have a huge yard sale right before i left and dump the lot... including a lot of my clothes. moving to a new country, i would only go with what i could fit into one big suitcase. it sounds like you need a "do-over" anyways. what better way to start fresh than with all new stuff, in a new place and a different country! 

good luck! and have fun! :D

I agree.  Only keep things that are personal and meaningful.  You don't need the added expense of storing stuff weighing you down.  And believe me, if you're smart, you'll come back with plenty of mementos.   There's only 2 things I regret from my travels.  1- that I should have gone more places (the base offers cut rate tours all over and they're SUCH A DEAL!) and 2- that I didn't buy more things that are only available in the country I was in.  We had to move to Australia with only suitcases (no shipping of anything allowed) and I didn't miss a thing!