With one week to go, the nerves are kicking in big time and sleeping has been tough. I have tried to keep myself busy with work so that I don't dwell on the trip planning in my head. But when it's time to stop the work and get in bed the mind is off to the races. I know I have everything I need, I've packed my stuff about three times to get it right. I think it's just the excitement of something so big happening in my life. This will be bigger than any of my backpacking trips in Europe, there are many unknowns that can happen on this trip. I'm not one to worry about bad things  but I have to realize the dangers and potential trouble that we might face. Within 14,000 miles anything can happen. 

   Lying in my wonderful bed, I also worry about the comforts that come with life on the road. I adapt well to new surrounding and I look forward to being in my tent somewhere on the open road.  Showers will be spread out and after sleeping on the ground for weeks on end, I'm sure my back and body will start feeling it. But that's where the excitement come it. So much to get used to, and so much to look forward to. 

  This is an adventure, and with adventure come excitement and danger and fun and tons of memories. Hopefully great memories, that I can share with my kids and grandkids. I will miss my friends and wife and dog very much.

Thanks for reading,

Curty