Feeling Better!

I have a temporary resolution to my research dilemma. Actually it’s not a solution at all to the research itself, but rather what I am going to do about the whole China thing. I talked to my advisor today and he said not to worry at all about presenting a paper. I can easily and discreetly be removed from the program since he is a co-chair of the conference and one of my labmates from home is the secretary who will do it. Of course, I can still attend and participate in the student program. He will also give me some other organizational and administrative tasks to do while I’m there in order to justify my funding. He didn’t seem disappointed at all – or at least not disappointed in my effort. That’s really how I feel as well. I’ve worked so hard that I can’t fault myself for not having done everything I could. I’m just sad it didn’t work in time for the conference. I’ll pick up that part of my research when I return to Illinois. In the mean time, I can work on other things that will make the most of my time here in this laboratory. Also, now my trip to China is really just a nice vacation. Not having to worry about a presentation is a great feeling.

I’m getting prepared for my week of meetings next week. Three days of meetings will be held in Tsukuba (http://www.city.tsukuba.ibaraki.jp/hp/e_hp/) which is also known as the “Science City.” I decided, at Dr. Spencer’s suggestion to stay at the hotel there with the other US participants. It will save and hour and a half commute each day and will be a nice change of scenery. I’m really excited to see my old advisor, Dr. Foutch, who will also be attending the meetings. The three days after the meetings we have technical cite visits. Two are in Tokyo but on Thursday we will be going to Kamaishi City (http://www.city.kamaishi.iwate.jp/english/welcome.htm) on the coast to see a Tsunami breakwater. We will get there via the bullet train and stay one night. I think it will be really pretty and also a nice side trip. I have been instructed to bring gifts for the Japanese delegation members. It’s supposed to be something that is from your home or your university but I didn’t know about this meeting before I left Illinois. I did bring a mug and a set of playing cards from the U of I as backup gifts but I’m definitely going to have to go buy some more respectable gifts, even if they are from Japan.

I have started to plan Nathan’s visit for real. I have the beginnings of an itinerary typed up and I’ve added up the expenses. It’s going to be great. I’m trying not to get bogged down with the idea that we have to experience “everything.” We will see enough and have a good time with each other while doing so. I hope it doesn’t rain while he’s here because the best way to experience everything is just to walk around.

I’m feeling a lot better – like I have a huge weight lifted off! Now I can enjoy the rest of my trip.