Managed to get everything into 3 small bags for this long journey. Will purchase as needed along the way. Also sent myself a package in advance, to be waiting in Singapore on July 5th. Today is a day of sitting & waiting. Rode the rails on Amtrak from San Diego to LA this morning. Waiting @ LAX to board flight to London. Sitting...waiting...people watching...surfing the internet -- same thing I'd do if I was sitting at the office. These circumstances...

Less than 48 hours to go. The packing continues. Attempting to travel lite, tough decisions need to be made. Mosquito repellant is a must for safari in Africa ("Sportsmen Max" w/ 40% DEET -- that's some serious stuff -- we're talkin' avoiding malaria at all costs). Bath & Body Works Sweet Pea Body Lotion doesn't make the cut and must stay behind. Never thought packing for such a long & varied journey would get so intense.

Less than 72 hours before the big adventure begins. The excitement is mounting. Before it all can get rolling, gotta finish packing the suitcase. Never an easy task...sigh... My 4-legged roommates in the photo are oblivious to what will be happening in 48 hours. Little do they know their meal ticket will be temporarily fleeing the country. They'll be left in the very capable & caring hands of "Team Pacho/Cuevas of San Diego".