Packing My Bags

Packing for this trip has become quite the challenge. I am trying to consolidate all of what I will need for the next six weeks into a smaller than usual suitcase. My friends will agree that when going home for the weekend (the short trip from Tucson to Phoenix) I will pack an entire duffle bag. Then when the weekend has ended I realize that I didn't even end of wearing half of what I packed. For this adventure I am trying to bring only what I will need and nothing extra. I think I will find myself staring at my bag the night before I leave trying to reevaluate what I have packed and picking out everything that doesn't need to travel with me. The program that I am volunteering with has asked to bring any school and medical supplies to donate to the schools and clinics. Those supplies are taking up a lot of space but it will definitely be worth it to donate this goods to people that truly need them. A challenge that I am facing is what kind of gift I should bring for my host family that is taking a group of us in for five weeks. Any suggestions? Possibly something that wont take up a lot of space. My Spanish to English dictionary is packed right on top and i plan on doing some studying during my plane ride. Thanks for reading and I so excited for what is in store. Six days and counting until departure.