Inventory Management and Mark Twain's Distaste.

The Gear, the Stuff, the Jam, Everything...it's all there. I have never traveled in this way before on my own. Once, and my sister will be the testiment, I, volunteered for an 11 day hike from my camp to a location outside of the 7,600 square kilometer park. It was a torturous event, but I survived and have a few lovely tales of hypothermia to spin because of it. However, the packs were arcaic then and i was only 13. So now, being older and wiser, I chose my materials wisely.

But let me clue all of you in on something, Though this trip has yet to begin, i will tell you that when you pack stuff think to yourself before it goes in your bag, 'will i use this? and should i lug this thing around for X period of time?' I found that asking outload, though making me look like a lunatic in my room, was the most helpful. So I brought everything, I bought everything, and now I am packing for the last time before touching down in Paris tomorrow morning. My first impression of the bag totally packed (it has been for 24 hours) is that the F-ing thing is heavy. It makes me feel old. Weak knees, aching back, sore legs, but hey this trip is about growth right? So I will forge on and get stronger or hire a caddy (just kidding)


Today is the last day in NYC so I will pack up now, and then head to Park Slope for the final meal with my old roommates. It is exciting now, really exciting. So I will talk to you all later and the next time I speak with you I'll be in Paris, France.



"France has neither winter nor summer nor morals. Apart from these drawbacks it is a fine country. France has usually been governed by prostitutes." —Mark Twain