It's finally time. I can't even explain how I am feeling right now. I choose to avoid the anxiety and potenial stress by continually reviewing my 47 checklists that I have going to make sure I have taken care of all my loose ends and have remembered to pack one of everything that fits in my bag. Socks; check, Money belt; check, photocopy passport and place it everywhere I can conceive of; will do first thing in the morning, camera; check, Imodium AD; check, and on and on.........

The past three days have been spent moving out of my house, doing last minute shopping, and trying to see everyone one more time. My roommates Andrea, Reid, and I had a BBQ/party Saturday evening that was a great time. Thanks to everyone who came, it was a blast!!!

Me and Andrea on her way out after the party to go see her favorite 80's band.
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There are so many reason's to be excited about taking a trip like this. I plan to see some of the great wonders of the world (Pyramids of Giza, Great Wall of China, Augustiner Bier Tent at Oktoberfest), try new adventures ( hiking through Transylvania, learning to dive in the Red Sea, finding someone who speaks english in rural China, cruising down the river on a bamboo raft in Northern Thailand), and meet some incredible people (the Bedouins of Wadi Rum Jordan, various market stall salesmen of the world "hello Sir, how do you do Sir, I give you very special price Sir", as well as tons of Aussies, Kiwi's, and Brits along the way.) Even with all of that ahead, the thing that is most intriguing to me about the whole trip is that I get to do it at my own pace, on my own terms, and solely my way. I feel that that is the most priceless experience that (how many times are you allowed to use "that" in a sentence?) I will take away from this journey and can't wait to savor every moment of it!!!

Next time I check in it will be from that sunny mecca across the pond, London, England.....Cheers!!!