Always Keep a Valid Passport

Twice this has happened to me and I’ve missed international travel because I didn’t have an up to date passport.

The first time was around 11 years ago (because passports expire every 10 years). I was asked by my choir teacher if I could come along on his tour to Ireland with the other choir class to take photos. I said that sounded like an opportunity of a lifetime, but I didn’t have a passport, so I didn’t get to go.

The second time was recent and I thought my passport was valid, but apparently 10 years comes and goes quickly as you age. I was asked by a former teacher to help transport cats to Germany, I applied for a passport, but it took right at that 12 week deadline and she needed to move them faster, so again I stayed state side.

Now I have a valid passport again and am ready for the next adventure. I suppose I will be setting a reminder in my phone for 9 years an 6 months from now so I can have my renewal date on the ready.