Preparing for the convention....

Since we registered for the Teach Them Diligently Convention back in the beginning of January, our oldest son has been wanting to pack for the trip. I keep telling him it is too early. He is so cute, he wants to pack a suit to wear in case he gets a chance to meet Ken Ham. I think he wants his job when he grows up. I must say, I am pretty pleased with his choice of a mentor.

Today, I finally realize it is less than three weeks away. With a our family of six going, I decided I better start planning. So, I started making my lists...yes, plural!

I was trying to figure out what bag I would take with me to the convention. I knew that I would need a bag big enough to carry my notebook, the convention notebook, my Bible, snacks for the kids, a change of clothes for the kids (12 hours away from the hotel, you never know what is going to happen), etc. I finally decided that I am going to bring our small rolling suitcase. I may look weird, but I will be very prepared and I wont have to carry a heavy bag on my shoulder (which makes my herniated disk happy!).

I also realized that since we are going to be away from the hotel for 12 hours, I should probably bring snacks for the kids (oh, who am I kidding, I need to bring snacks for my husband too..hee hee). If I bring the small suitcase, I can fit everything in it and it is small enough that it wont be a bother to others when I am in sessions.

Things I am bringing with me to the convention in my trusty suitcase -

Small first aid kit
Snacks (breakfast cookies, apples, etc)
wipes
change of clothes for each child (each set of clothing in a gallon size bag with the air let out - great space saver!)
Bible
Binder notebook
Ibuprofen (just in case my herniated disk gets unhappy)
Kids coats in case it is rainy/cooler when we go in or leave

Along with preparing my lists, I am also preparing my binder notebook. I am close to having all of my session picked out. Once I pick them out, I am going to type up a list, one for each day. The binder I bought has the front pocket, so my schedule will always be in sight without having to open up my binder (thank you, Raising Arrows!).

I also have in my notebook a pocket for my pens, clear pockets in case I get something that isn't hole punched, or if I get something I want in plain sight for later. I also have notebook paper.

My daily schedule that I am typing will have each hour outlined whether it be what session I want to go to (and a back-up session in case things get changed) or when I need to pick the kids up for lunch/dinner. I will have the days organized! I think that will make it more relaxing and enjoyable.

Are you going to any conventions? How are you preparing?