This weekend I’m traveling to a special needs ministry conference in the DC area. While packing my suitcase, I couldn’t help noticing how its contents have changed over the years. Way back when, it consisted mainly of clothes and shoes, as one would expect. Not so much anymore as this list reveals.

10. Gadget chargers. For Square chip reader, cell phone, computer, and the good camera. Along with the electronic equipment not packed in carry on luggage.

9.  A small insulated cooler. With cold packs. Surrounding a tub of fake butter, a bottle of fake milk, and probiotic capsules. Because they must be kept cool at all times.

8.  Work out clothes. Tennis shoes, yoga pants, sleeveless shirt, sweatshirt. You get the picture.

7.  Exercise equipment. As in a flat bed sheet folded lengthwise over and over and over, secured with rubber bands at both ends and in the middle. For hooking around an ankle while lying on one’s stomach and pulling to stretch a leg toward head. Not a pretty picture, but effective.

6. Composition notebooks. Used for Bible study and prayer journals. With a favorite Zebra pen clipped to the cover.

5. Pillowcase and fitted sheet. As in the allergenic variety to keep the hotel dust mites and bed bugs at bay. (Even though that the 1960s era Weekly Readers or my childhood announced that bed bugs had been eradicated.)

4. A Felix Unger look alike pharmacy. Complete with allergy drops, vitamin and calcium pills, immune booster capsules, allergy pills, empty capsules, oregano oil, and dropper for putting oil in empty capsules. (Disclaimer: I do not yet clear my sinuses with loud “Mwa.” )

3.  Paper copies. For hand outs and speaking notes. Along with corresponding electronic documents on a flash drive. Just in case. Because you never know.

2.  Book table paraphernalia. Gold tablecloth (purchased for $5 in Walmart clearance aisle), business cards, teddy bear, book stand, newsletter sign up sheets, bookmarks, and lots and lots of books. Which make for a very heavy suitcase.

1. Clothes. A professional outfit or two, shoes and tights to match, along with comfy travel clothes. Minus the pantyhose and slips that thankfully have gone out of style, leaving room for at least a couple more books for the book table.

Any changes in your suitcase over the years? Leave a comment without giving TMI.