Boarding the plane for Tokyo, I remember patting myself on the back over how high tech my kit was for this trip and how well prepared I seemed. Now upon arriving in drenched Naeba this afternoon for the festival, I’m patting a wet back with a new realization: I forgot some stuff.

Not having a rain cover for my photo bag might become an issue. Hell, I don’t even have a towel. I’ve discovered that my wifi-only iPad has some limitations, like the GPS leaving huge blank areas in maps that I have already set up for directions. Without a phone, I’m back to the dark ages in meeting up with folks.

I am going to get lost.

Most of the crew have collapsible chairs which would be a plus. The workman’s boots I bought today do kick ass and the official staff jacket is great quality.

Oh yeah, and Japanese lessons. Forgot those too.