Now that I've decided to take a jump off the edge of the earth, there's not much left for me to do except wait around and get stuff together. Since getting things together is nominally more fun than waiting around, this is what I spend the majority of time on. I've discovered a great little phrase book with about a dozen languages and key phrases in each, the whole thing no bigger than a wallet. Ive found that my local Target sells a huge variety of clothing perfect for bacpacking. I'm not sure if I've simply not noticed this before, or if this summer is the season of khakis and billowy button-ups. It certainly seems an odd coincidence, but who am I to complain? I've founf that it is remakably easy for me to pack only the bare minimum of clothing but exceedingly dificult to decide which shoes I get to take. I've found that it is also difficult to find an appropriate backpack when you're 5'2" on a good day but still want a pack with structure and support. The great, weather resistant, structured packs are almost all too big and heavy for me and what I plan to use it for, but the few smaller knapsack type bags that would be perfect are not weather-proofed in the slightest and would probably tear in two days.

I've found that my freinds are generally happy for me, once they get over the shock of my leaving. Usually it starts with an incredulous stare, that turns into a shaking of the head and then laughter when they realize that they aren't surprised in the slightest. Some are angry, some sad, but I think that is to be expected.

Lastly, I've found that looking up all these travel sites, reading the books, and generally dreaming has left me with the urge to leave this instant. Somewhere inside I know that is a terrible idea, but damned if it isn't tempting. Whoever said patience is a virtue needs a kick in the head.